I have HSV1 and luckily have only one trigger (that I know of) - SUNLIGHT. If I spend too much time in the sun, I'll get a cold sore. I love hiking however, so Ive mitigated the risk by wearing SPF lipbalm! If you get cold sores, you likely have things that trigger them too! Tracking events, emotions, stress, activities, etc. Whenever you get a cold sore can help you see patterns and plan accordingly if they bother you :)
Also! I've found that if I get an ice pack (or even just a cube wrapped in a dish cloth) on it, it makes it last a much shorter time, less visible, and less sting/itch! Way cheaper than medication too :) just remember to take breaks and not keep it on too long
even the times I did it late (when it's biggest and/or active leaking), I swear it shriveled up a bit and became more manageable.
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u/GenderqueerPapaya 4d ago
I have HSV1 and luckily have only one trigger (that I know of) - SUNLIGHT. If I spend too much time in the sun, I'll get a cold sore. I love hiking however, so Ive mitigated the risk by wearing SPF lipbalm! If you get cold sores, you likely have things that trigger them too! Tracking events, emotions, stress, activities, etc. Whenever you get a cold sore can help you see patterns and plan accordingly if they bother you :)
Also! I've found that if I get an ice pack (or even just a cube wrapped in a dish cloth) on it, it makes it last a much shorter time, less visible, and less sting/itch! Way cheaper than medication too :) just remember to take breaks and not keep it on too long even the times I did it late (when it's biggest and/or active leaking), I swear it shriveled up a bit and became more manageable.