I get the odd cold sore now and again and never kiss my husband or kids if I get an outbreak. It's a "hugs only" week, unfortunately.
But is it possible to possibly transfer cold sores to my loved ones when I don't have an outbreak?
I can't NOT kiss my husband or kids and to only kiss on the cheek for life is impossible!
So aside from what I currently do, is there anything more?
FYI: neither my husband or kids have ever had a cold sore. And I've been smooching them a long time!
All user-generated information on this site is the opinion of its author only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. Members and guests are responsible for their own posts and the potential consequences of those posts detailed in our Terms of Service.
Add a Comment2 Comments
The virus that causes cold sores is known as the herpes simplex virus (HSV), it is very contagious so you are correct on being concerned about protecting your love ones during outbreaks. I recommend supplements of L-Lysine year round 1,000 mg 3 times daily between meals during outbreaks and the rest of the time use 500mg. Studies show that taking lysine supplements can speed recovery time and reduce the chance of recurrent breakouts of the herpes infection
In addition, incluse vitamin C supplementation of at least 1000mg daily dosage and Zinc 30mg twice daily. If you have a very stressful life, keep a good supplemenation of Magnesium in your diet. Supplements of 1000mg daily dosage will help manage stress.
December 4, 2008 - 11:39pmThis Comment
While I'm sure an outbreak is embarrassing, uncomfortable and disruptive, cold sores are very common. There's no cure once you've been infected, but you can take safeguards against spreading the virus to others and avoid some triggers, like stress or sun exposure. Hormonal changes can also trigger an outbreak.
I've never had a cold sore; but my husband gets an outbreak when he's feeling particularly stressed. So, it's important for him to minimize stress.
You're probably already doing the usual: washing your hands frequently, avoiding contact with open blisters, etc. You can also avoid food triggers, such as acidic or citrus fruit.
For more on cold sores and treatment, see:
eMedicine.net Cold Sore Causes
WebMD Cold Sores - Home Treatment
MayoClinic Cold Sores
December 4, 2008 - 7:59pmThis Comment