Risk Factors of a Fever Blister

A cold sore is more likely to occur by kissing or sharing food, drink, eating utensils or other personal items.  Young people and children are more likely to be exposed to HSV-1 and may develop more cold sores.  Those who spend a lot of time in the sun or use tanning beds may also be more prone to developing cold sores.  Physical stress such as illness, extreme exercise, injury, menstruation, or oral surgery can predispose an individual toward developing a cold sore.  Emotional stress can also result in a fever blister outbreak.  Some medications, including steroid and those that suppress the immune system can cause cold sores too.    Other factors that can result in an outbreak of fever blisters are:

•    colds or flu

•    fever

•    refined sugars

•    fatigue

•    anything that compromises the immune system such as HIV or medications taken by organ transplant patients.