Know Your Cold Sore Triggers

While you may not be able to totally avoid getting a cold sore, you can take precautions that may help minimize a dreaded flare-up. If you sense conditions are right for a flare-up, you should be ready with ABREVA® to start treating the cold sore at that first tingle.

Fatigue

• You don't have to "do it all." Make time in your day to focus on yourself and make downtime its own reward.
• Make sleep, rest and relaxation a regular part of your day, every day.
• Too much inactivity can actually cause further fatigue, so try to work exercise into your daily routine, even if it’s just a brisk walk around the block.
• Try to go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day. Your body responds to a regular routine.
• Take advantage of a "power nap" in the afternoon. It can be just the pick-me-up you need.

Stress

• Become more conscious of your physical health during stressful times and make it a point to get plenty of rest, eat healthy foods and participate in relaxing activities.
• Consider yoga or relaxation therapy to help you manage your stress.
• Make exercise a part of every day; it's good for your body and your mind!
• Concentrate on your breathing. Take deep cleansing, deliberate breaths and avoid short, shallow breathing.
• Spend more time with people whose company you enjoy, take up a new hobby or look for other pleasant distractions from the fast track.

Cold Weather

• In cold, dry weather, cover and protect your face and mouth with both a moisturizer and a scarf.
• Watch out for conditions that can dry out your skin, such as your furnace or super-hot baths or showers.
• Use gentle extra-moisturizing cleansers and hydrating masks to keep your skin moist.
• Keep your body hydrated — don’t skimp on the water.
• Don’t forget to wear lip balm when you’re out and about to guard against the drying effects of coldwind — not to mention UV rays.

Sun Exposure

• Limit your sun time, especially between 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. when the sun’s rays are most dangerous.
• Wear sunscreen and lip moisturizer with both UVA and UVB protection. SPF 15 or higher is a must.
• Wear a hat to avoid sunburn on the delicate skin of your face and mouth.
• Beware of the harmful effects of sunlight reflected off water and snow.

Hormones

• Keep your body healthy by eating nutritious foods in moderation. Avoid the junk!
• Make sure you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals through your diet or supplements.
• Get plenty of rest. Try to go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day. The human body responds well to a regular routine.
• Follow a regular exercise plan to give your mind, body and spirit a healthful boost.

Trauma

• Wear mouth protection when playing contact sports. This is especially important for people who play sports like football and basketball.
• Inform your dentist that you are prone to cold sore outbreaks. If you are having prolonged treatments or repeat visits, your dentist can adjust protection accordingly.

Fever, Cold or Flu

• Avoid contact with people who have cold and flu symptoms.
• Wash your hands frequently with the warmest soapy water you can tolerate to help stop the spread of germs.
• Keep your immune system strong by eating healthy foods, taking vitamin supplements, getting plenty of rest and exercising regularly.