Cold sores are painful, tiny blisters caused by an infection with the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). The symptoms can be pretty grave the first time an individual gets cold sores, and the first outbreak can make a child seriously ill. In most cases, the immune system forms antibodies after the first outbreak, which prevents further episodes. That said, certain factors can trigger recurrent cold sores in some people.

1. Stress
This is a major cold sore trigger. Research suggests that feeling stressed can have serious implications on an individual’s mental and physical health. Mental stress also affects the immune system’s functioning, which can give the latent virus an opportunity to replicate. This can, in turn, lead to a recurrence of blisters.

2. Fatigue
This is another common trigger for cold sores. Feeling run down and tired makes one susceptible to cold sores as a lack of energy takes a toll on the immune system, making it hard for the body to tackle the virus. So, one should get adequate rest to prevent fatigue-induced cold sores. It’s advisable to avoid anything that can hinder a good night’s rest, like late-evening caffeine intake, long naps during the day, or screen exposure just before bedtime.

3. Cold weather
Changes in the temperature and the air’s moisture content can make it challenging for the body to prevent the virus from replicating. Cold winter temperatures and dry air can dry out the lips and make them susceptible to a blister outbreak. One should take good care of their lips to keep cold sores at bay in the cold weather.

4. Excessive sunlight exposure
Sun exposure is a leading trigger for cold sores. So, one should protect their face from the sun to avoid getting cold sores. Wearing a lip sunblock or sunscreen can protect the lips, and one can walk in the shade or wear a wide-brimmed hat when outside.

5. Hormonal changes
Women normally experience hormonal changes during their menstrual cycles, and this is also a prevalent cause of cold sores. Usually, cold sores occur immediately before or during a cycle as a result of the hormonal changes in the body. Some women may also experience cold sores due to pregnancy-related hormonal fluctuations.

6. Dental treatment
Dental treatments might put pressure on the mouth or the lips, which can lead to a cold sore outbreak. Additionally, the stress and anxiety associated with a visit to the dentist can also trigger these blisters. Applying a cold compress to the lips after a trip to the dentist’s clinic can help.

7. A weak immune system
Typically, the virus that primarily causes cold sores remains in the body. So, if the immune system is weak or busy fighting another virus or infection, like the flu or common cold, one has greater chances of developing cold sores as the Herpes virus gets a chance to replicate.