LYCOS RETRIEVER 
Cold Sores: Outbreaks
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If you get cold sores you can use some herbs to strengthen your immune system either just before and when an outbreak begins. The Complete Encyclopedia of Natural Healing by Gary Null Ph.D. states that Echinacea, Goldenseal and Chaparral are good immune system supporters. Cayenne can relieve some of the discomfort and Aloe Vera seems to be effective in combating the herpes virus. Garlic can be quite helpful. Applying Black Walnut to the infected area may be of help. Gotu Kola is widely used to heal tissues and promote tissue growth.
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The treatments for cold sores have come a long way in recent years. There are several new medications that not only offer relief of symptoms, but they ... shorten the cold sore's life span. Some are available over the counter (Abreva, Viractin) and some by prescription only (Denivir). The one thing that these medications do have in common is that treatment must be instituted at the very first sign of a cold sore. Often, this is the tingling or tickling sensation that happens before a cold sore is even visible. If you suffer frequent outbreaks, it's a good idea to keep one of these medicines on hand.
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Cold sores are contagious. You can get them from skin-to-skin contact, such as kissing, or from sharing eating utensils or towels with someone who has a cold sore. Certain triggers may cause repeated outbreaks, including:
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Cold sores normally go away on their own within 7 to 10 days. And although no medications can make the infection go away, there are prescription drugs and creams available that can shorten the length of the outbreak and make the cold sore less painful.
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Recurrent cold sores usually develop where facial skin and the lip meet. About 6 to 48 hours before a cold sore is visible, you may feel tingling, burning, itching, numbness, tenderness, or pain in the affected area. This is called the prodromal stage. L-Lysine supplements along with a topical treatment can help lessen and stop outbreaks.
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Most cold sores will clear up on their own in 7 to 10 days. However, if you are experiencing frequent outbreaks, your doctor may prescribe an oral antiviral medication. Medications can help cold sores clear up faster, but they won’t prevent new outbreaks from occurring.
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