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What Causes Cold Sore Flare-Ups?

Also called a fever blister, a cold sore is a lesion -- generally appearing on the lips -- caused by a virus known as herpes simplex 1. If you carry the virus, you are among the majority. There is no cure for the virus, and after contracting your first cold sore, the herpes virus lies dormant in the nerves of your skin, waiting to cause another fever blister at any time. There are certain times, however, that you are more likely to develop a cold sore.

  1. Manipulation of the Affected Area

    • Cold sores are likely to develop after trauma to, and/or irritation of, your mouth, lips or the area around them. Oral surgery or even a simple trip to the dentist can result in a cold sore breakout. Other treatments and procedures around your mouth and on your face can also precede a fever blister. Accidental minor trauma to or around the lips, such as a scratch, or a crack in the lips from weather or dehydration increases the likelihood that you will soon see a new cold sore.

    Sun Exposure

    • Exposure to ultraviolet radiation is a major culprit in the development of a cold sore breakout. The best way to avoid new fever blisters brought on by sun exposure is to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun altogether. However, if a few hours in the sun is inevitable, apply a strong sunblock to both your lips and face before venturing out. It is important that you do this all year long, not just during the summer.

    Physical and Emotional Stress

    • Other infections, such as the common cold or the flu, can precipitate the development of cold sores. Any time you and your body are under stress, whether that stress is physical or emotional, you run a higher risk for new fever blisters. Minimizing stress will minimize cold sores, and you can do this by taking care of yourself. Avoid emotionally stressful situations, as well as exposure to others who are sick. Eat a well-rounded diet, avoid alcohol -- another cold sore trigger -- and try to get enough sleep.

    Prevention

    • Sometimes, despite avoiding triggers commonly associated with a cold sore outbreak, you may develop one anyway. In addition to treating the virus as directed by your doctor, it is important that you avoid spreading the virus to other parts of your body and to other people. You can do this by washing your hands frequently and always after touching or treating your fever blister. Avoid kissing and other close contact during a breakout, as well as sharing items with others, such as washcloths, towels and makeup. Your flare-up will likely last several days to three weeks. It is important to take these precautions until it is over.

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