The bastard spawn of Satan, the cold-sore virus can lie dormant in your system for months, years even, and just when you’ve got something important on, springs to life like the angry, crusty little twat it is.

In a piece of information that will surprise precisely no one, stress – like a major work presentation or first date – is a known trigger of the Herpes Simplex 1 gem. As are generally being run down, sun exposure and illness.

Good times.

There is no known cure. At least not instantly.

So, the question becomes how do we deal with a cold sore?

The second you feel the first tingle, hit up your doctor for an antiviral like Valtrex. It brings more punch than any over the counter application can.

In the early stages, twice daily dosage can stop the virus from replicating. If you are on an antiviral, ask the doc for a steroid cream too. One works from the inside and the other on the outside.

Cold compresses can also help heal and calm the zone. Top it with an aloe vera treatment – it will help manage the pain and the vitamins A, C and E will encourage healing.

Word to the wise, steer clear of spicy or acidic foods.