Can you prevent cold sores this winter?

When winter rolls around, we expect the coughs, flus, and possible fevers; we even prepare for them, but cold sores always arrive as an unwelcome and unexpected guest.

Dr Vion Wium, general practitioner at Mediclinic Hermanus, shares some tips on surviving cold sores this winter.

Who suffers from cold sores?

If you suffer from stress, have a reactive or weak immune system, or are in the sun a lot, then you have most likely experienced cold sores or fever blisters more than once. Most people are familiar with cold sores, small blisters filled with fluid that usually appear on or around the mouth.

Treatment and management options for cold sores this season

According to Dr Wium, there is no cure for cold sores, which is why they may reappear at different intervals. However, antiviral medication can help prevent how frequently the cold sores appear and how long they last when they return.

Treatment options such as oral medication, topical ointments and creams are available. Typically, these are applied when a person recognises the signs of an incoming cold sore. These over-the-counter medications generally don’t offer a permanent solution, but can speed up the healing process or prevent the blister from getting worse.

If these treatments are unsuccessful, you’ve reached the stage where the cold sore is visible, having broken through the surface of your skin and appeared. It’s best to stay away from citrus, spicy and salty food and hot beverages, as they can exacerbate the matter.

“Once a cold sore has reached the weeping stage, that is when it’s the most contagious, and as the carrier, practising good hygiene is more important than ever. This includes washing your hands regularly and avoiding sharing any utensils. After this stage, the healing begins. You’ll find that your cold sore is crusting, and it’s best to alternate between a cold and warm compress or zinc oxide ointments to prevent any scarring or pain,” says Dr Wium.

If neither of these methods work and the cold sore continues to worsen, especially if you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s best to consult your doctor:

• The cold sores spread to your eyes
• You develop a fever along with the cold sore
• The cold sore won’t clear within 2 weeks
• The skin around the cold sore has crusted and oozes liquid

While cold sores are not always preventable, you can ask your GP or Mediclinic doctor for guidance on how to boost your immune system and identify any triggers to reduce your risk.