Treating cold sores in winter: A comprehensive prevention guide

Cold sores are one of the most common and bothersome skin problems worldwide. They are not just fleeting blisters, but rather the result of a chronic viral infection affecting billions of people. With the arrival of winter, many complain of these painful blisters appearing around the mouth and nose, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of this virus and how to treat it.

Medical context and historical background

Historically, the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) has been known to humankind for thousands of years. Its name derives from the Greek word meaning "creeping," referring to the way sores spread. World Health Organization statistics indicate that this virus is endemic globally, with approximately 67% of the world's population under the age of 50 carrying it. The virus's danger lies in its ability to remain dormant within nerve cells (specifically the trigeminal ganglia), launching attacks when immunity weakens or environmental conditions change.

The importance of the event and its health impact

The impact of cold sores is not limited to physical pain, but extends to psychological and social dimensions:

• On a personal level: Sores cause social embarrassment and psychological stress for the affected person, which may affect their self-confidence and interaction with others.
• On the health front: Although it is often not serious in healthy people, it can pose a real threat to people with weak immune systems, or newborns, and in very rare cases it may develop into infections in the eye or brain.
• Regionally and locally: In areas with a dry climate and cold winters, infection rates increase due to dry skin and chapped lips, which facilitates viral activity.

Why does the virus become more active in winter?

Winter is a fertile environment for the activity of the herpes virus for several key reasons:

• Seasonal weakening of immunity: The immune system being preoccupied with fighting influenza and cold viruses gives the herpes virus a chance to become active.
• Severe dehydration: Cold, dry air leads to chapped lips, and these small cracks act as a mechanical trigger to awaken the virus that lies dormant in the nerves.
• Psychological stress: Winter is often associated with work and study stress, and tension is one of the most important triggers for herpes.

Effective prevention strategies

To reduce the chances of developing and recurring attacks, experts recommend following a strict preventative routine:

• Deep hydration: Use medical lip balms that contain sunscreen (SPF), as winter sunlight is no less harmful than summer sunlight in stimulating the virus.
• Boosting immunity: Focus on foods rich in vitamin C and zinc, and get enough sleep to enable the body to control the latent virus.
• Avoid triggers: Stay away from foods high in arginine (such as nuts and chocolate) during periods of stress, as they are believed to help the virus multiply, and replace them with foods rich in lysine (such as dairy and fish).

Available treatment options

Although there is no definitive cure that eliminates the virus from the body, early intervention can shorten the duration of the infection:

• Topical antivirals: such as acyclovir creams, are most effective when applied in the "tingling" stage before blisters appear.
• Painkillers and compresses: Use cold compresses to reduce swelling, and painkillers to relieve pain.
• Personal hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly and do not touch sores to prevent the spread of infection to the eyes or other organs, and never share personal items.