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:

I tend to get cold sores…

When I get sick, I tend to get cold sores.

I would say my life is…

I sometimes get cold sores after visiting the dentist.

I wake up rested and refreshed…

I tend to get cold sores during my menstrual cycle.

Cold weather icon

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.

How to put the freeze on cold sores

Excessive sunlight icon

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.

How to stay cold sore free this summer

WIND ICON

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.

Learn how to protect yourself from cold sores all year long

Weakened immune system icon

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.

Learn how to give your immune system a boost?

Stress icon

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.

Learn how to keep stress in check

Stress icon

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.

Learn how reduce stress

Dental trauma icon

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.

Discover the link between dental work and cold sores

Fatigue icon

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.

Get tips on how to get a good night’s sleep

Fatigue icon

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.

Get tips on how to get a good night’s sleep

Hormonal changes icon

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

  • Stress messes with emotions. Stress

    Sure, 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 long walks outside or listen to your favourite music.


    Try These Relaxation Techniques

  • Fatigue can zap your immune system. Fatigue

    Like stress and illness, fatigue can zap your immune system, making you easy prey for a cold sore outbreak. In today’s hectic world, feeling “beat” can give cold sores the advantage. So relax. Exercise. Sleep. And give your immune system a fighting chance.


    Get Some Tips on How To Sleep Better

  • Protect yourself from the cold. Cold weather

    Protect yourself from the cold. 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 lips are moisturized.


    Learn How to Weather the Winter

  • Excesive sunlight icon Excessive sunlight

    Go on the offensive against sun exposure. Not only can UV rays from the sun damage your skin, but sun exposure can also trigger cold sores. Use lip balm with SPF and wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors and don’t forget your beach umbrella when heading out during the day.


    Find Your Spot in the Shade

  • Trauma to your mouth or lips can launch a cold sore outbreak. Dental trauma

    Trauma to your mouth or lips can launch a cold sore outbreak. Could be an injury. Could be a dental procedure that pulls at the sensitive area around your mouth. If this is one of your triggers, make your dentist an ally and join forces to minimize trauma.


    Learn About Cold Sores and Visiting the Dentist

  • Learn How to Stay Strong During Cold & Flu Season 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 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.


    Learn How to Stay Strong During Cold & Flu Season

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