So what do you really need to know about those recurrent cold sores? If you are a sufferer, you need to know a few basics in order to protect yourself and those around you.
This article will explore the five most important things you need to know about the herpes simplex virus, and how to live with it.
5 cold sore facts: 1) They are not your fault, nor are they dirty: Society just loves to pass judgment labeling sufferers as dirty or promiscuous.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Protection, the herpes simplex virus causes the outbreak.
An estimated 1 in 5 men has the virus, and an estimated 1 in 4 women carries the virus.
The number speak for themselves, cold sores are common and nothing to be ashamed of.
Many suffers pass the virus onto babies and children by well meaning relatives eager to shower little ones in kisses, while others are the result of infidelity, and some contract the virus through sharing of cups or utensils.
It is a distinct minority of sufferers that are infected with the genital herpes strain on their faces, passed on through oral sex.
Even in these cases, it says nothing about who you are as a person! 2) Are they contagious: Preventing passing on the virus is essential.
This means no kissing when you feel an outbreak coming on, and no oral sex.
Other preventative measures include extra attention to sharing of dishes, towels, eating utensils, and anything that might come into contact with the affected area.
3) Are they preventable: It might not be possible to prevent ever suffering from a cold sore outbreak again; there are many ways to prevent the frequency and severity of your outbreaks.
Everybody is different and each person reacts to the various remedies differently, making it impossible to tell what the perfect preventative cocktail is for you.
Dietary supplements of Lysine are known to be very effective for many sufferers.
There are also various permanent dietary changes that may offer some relief.
Many sufferers find that their stress levels play a huge role in determining how many recurrent cold sores they have, taking measures to ensure adequate sleep and lower stress levels is crucial to preventing attacks.
4) Are they treatable: Once you can feel one of your attacks coming on you can take advantage of the wide variety of modern miracles that medical science has on offer.
Depending on where in the world you live, you'll find a variety of antiviral ointments, pills, and creams.
Doctors can prescribe a few stronger variations for serious outbreaks.
5) One day, might they be curable: Rest assured the medical community is searching for a cure as we speak.
There are some estimates that many of the promising clinical trials in existence will hit the markets as soon as 2012 and offer permanent relief from cold sores.
Once you know these basics about your cold sores, you are better able to avoid them and lessen the impact of them recurring in your life.
There's no need to suffer when there are so many powerful treatment options available.