No matter what the season or the weather, cold sores are something that can seemingly pop-up out of the blue. However, it’s important to know that the little blisters that form in and around the mouth are actually caused by the Herpes Simplex Type 1 virus. This virus is simply known as HSV 1 and is easily transmissible through close contact.
Not only are cold sores and fever blisters embarrassing, they are also very contagious whether the actual blister is present or not. Without treatment, the average cold sore can take up to two weeks to completely heal. A cold sore has five distinct phases and there is only one FDA approved, non-prescription medicine available to shorten the healing time and reduce symptoms.
Abreva is a cream that comes in a small tube or in a tube pump. This is medicine that penetrates deep into the tissues and works by protecting the healthy cells that the HSV 1 virus wants to infect.
When To Use Abreva
There are many factors that can trigger a cold sore outbreak. The HSV 1 virus that causes the blisters was probably acquired in childhood and lies dormant inside the human body until something triggers it, or wakes it up. Below are some of the most common triggers.
- Cold Weather
- Excessive Sunlight
- Fatigue
- Stress
- Mouth or Lip Injury
- Hormonal Changes
- Weakened Immune System
It’s important to be aware of these triggers to avoid an outbreak of cold sores and fever blisters. It is recommended to always get at least 8 hours of sleep. It’s important to avoid stress whenever possible and to make sure that all health issues are addressed immediately. Whenever an outbreak does occur, Abreva is the only non-prescription strength medicine that is clinically proven to shorten healing time.
Abreva Protects Lips Before An Outbreak
Chapped and dried out lips can be a contributing factor to a cold sore outbreak. It’s important to understand that hydration is one of the biggest things that can be done to keep lips healthy and moisturized. Always drink plenty of water, and avoid licking lips as that can actually dry them out more. Also, pay attention to your lipstick or lip balm because ones with camphor, menthol and eucalyptus can actually cause lips to become drier.
Avoid letting shampoos and other hair products run down your face since they have drying agents that can be detrimental to lip health. A healthy diet and adding a zinc supplement can also have positive effects on the lips, as zinc is an important mineral that helps the body retain moisture.
Dry heat is another culprit that can make it easier for the HSV I virus to activate. Especially during winter months, it might be beneficial to use a humidifier to add some moisture back to the air. Something as small and simple as a bottle mister will also help to keep the air around you moist.
What Are The Stages Of A Cold Sore?
- Stage One – The Early Stage…Days 1-2
Inflammatory reaction causing area to be swollen and red
- Stage Two – Blister…Days 2-4
Blister is first noticeable and may appear as a group of small lumps. Cold
sore blister contains millions of virus particles that are very contagious.
- Stage Three – Ulcer Stage…Day 4
This is the most painful stage of the outbreak. Shallow ulcer develops..
- Stage Four – Scabbing…Days 5-8
Golden brown scab appears. May experience intense burning and itching.
- Stage Five – Healing Stage…Days 8-10
Some flaking and residual swelling as the scab starts to come off.
Does Abreva Really Shorten The Cold Sore Cycle?
According to the manufacturer’s website, Abreva is the only FDA approved, non-prescription cold sore remedy that will shorten healing time. The website claims that by using Abreva as directed, some people will see results in as little as 2.5 days with the median average of 4.1 days. Compare that to the average healing time without medication of 8-10 days.
How Does Abreva Work?
Abreva works by penetrating deeply into the affected tissue blocking the virus from reaching healthy cells, protecting them from the HSV 1 virus. By protecting healthy tissue, the virus does not have anywhere else to go and becomes dormant once again. There are numerous over-the-counter products that claim to aid in the healing of a cold sore outbreak, but these products only temporarily relieve the symptoms and do not directly address the virus that causes the cold sores and fever blisters.
The Abreva website is clear on how to use the product with specific recommendations. They state that you should apply the cream 5 times per day at the first sign of a cold sore, which is tingling and reddening of the infected area. It is also made abundantly clear on the website, that a cold sore is extremely contagious no matter what stage it is in and personal hygiene is of utmost importance. They recommend washing hands often and using a clean applicator, such as a cotton swab to apply the cream.
The manufacturer also states that you should never pick at the scab once it has formed and that you should continue using Abreva until all signs of the infection are gone.
Abreva Review – The Bottom Line
Roughly, 20%-40% of people will experience at least one cold sore breakout. For those that do experience this painful, embarrassing condition, there are not many choices for non-prescription relief. According to Abreva, there are, in fact, no other choices available at the local pharmacy other than their own, FDA approved cream.
So, the bottom line is: If you want to dramatically shorten the healing time of a cold sore outbreak, there is no other product on the market without a prescription that can do what Abreva claims to do.
Do remember that cold sores can be prevented by paying attention to the triggers that may cause an outbreak. Also remember that cold sores and fever blisters are very contagious and precautions should be taken not to transmit the virus to others.
