DISCOVER YOUR COLD SORE TRIGGERS
Now it is time to identify what may cause your cold sore outbreaks so you’ll have one more weapon in your arsenal. Remember, not everyone’s cold sore is triggered by the same thing. But there are common factors that may cause your cold sore outbreaks.
Take this short quiz to see what triggers your cold sores.
Your cold sore triggers are:

Cold weather
Winter could be your cold sore season. Protect yourself from the elements. Wear a scarf or pull up that turtleneck to avoid exposure to cold weather, dry air and winter wind that can dry out lips. Use lip protectant to ensure your lips are moisturized.

Excessive sunlight
Summertime could be your cold sore time. Go on the offensive against sun exposure. Not only can ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun damage your skin, but sun exposure can also trigger cold sores. So take action by using lip balm with SPF, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, and using a beach umbrella.

All year round
Looks like you get cold sores all year round. In colder months, protect yourself from the elements. Wear a scarf or pull up that turtleneck to avoid exposure to cold weather. Use lip protectant to ensure lips are moisturized. In the summertime, avoid excessive sun exposure by using lip balm with SPF, wearing a wide-brimmed hat and using a beach umbrella.

Weakened immune system
A fever, a cold or the flu can leave you feeling run-down and on the defense against a cold sore outbreak. When you feel a cold, fever or the flu coming on, listen to the experts and get plenty of rest and fluids. And don’t ignore the tingle, act on it! Taking positive action can make all the difference when it comes to cold sores.

Stress
Be sure to keep your stress level in check. Stress messes with emotions and can also wear down your immune system, giving that dormant cold sore a chance to launch a sneak attack. Take action instead of stressing out. Try yoga, deep breathing or simply find a quiet place to relax for a bit.

Stress
There’s a good chance your cold sores are caused by stress. Stress messes with emotions. But stress can also wear down your immune system, giving that dormant cold sore a chance to launch a sneak attack. Take action instead of stressing out. Try yoga, deep breathing or simply find a quiet place to relax for a bit.

Dental trauma
Some dental procedures can pull at the sensitive area around your mouth, causing trauma to your mouth or lips that can launch a cold sore outbreak. If this is one of your triggers, make your dentist an ally and join forces to minimize trauma.

Fatigue
Your lack of sleep may be triggering your cold sore. In today’s hectic world, feeling “beat” can give cold sores the advantage. So relax. Exercise. And most of all, sleep. A good night’s rest can recharge your immune system and help protect you from the virus.

Fatigue
Your lack of sleep may be triggering your cold sore. In today’s hectic world, feeling “beat” can give cold sores the advantage. So relax. Exercise. And most of all, sleep. A good night’s rest can recharge your immune system and help protect you from the virus.

Hormonal changes
For women, hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can trigger an outbreak. Pay attention to your own hormonal cycle and watch for signs of a cold sore so you can treat it early.
Cold sore triggers
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