Cold Sores in What Know

Cold sores, also known as oral herpes and herpes labialis, are small, painful blisters that occur on the lips and around the mouth. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), which is a common infection that affects up to 90% of the population.

Here are some important things to know about cold sores:

1. Symptoms: Cold sores typically begin with a tingling or burning sensation on the lips, followed by the development of small, fluid-filled blisters. These blisters may break open and crust over, forming a yellow or brown scab. Cold sores can be painful and may also cause itching, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.

2. Causes: Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). The virus is highly contagious and can be spread through close contact, such as kissing, sharing drinks or utensils, or touching the blisters. HSV-1 can also be spread through contact with contaminated surfaces or objects.

3. Recurrence: Once infected with HSV-1, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate, causing recurrent outbreaks of cold sores. Triggers for recurrent outbreaks can include stress, fatigue, illness, exposure to sunlight, and hormonal changes.

4. Treatment: There is no cure for HSV-1 infection, but treatment options are available to manage outbreaks and reduce symptoms. Over-the-counter antiviral medications, such as acyclovir and penciclovir, can be applied topically to help speed up healing and reduce pain. Prescription antiviral medications may be prescribed for severe or frequent outbreaks.

5. Prevention: To prevent cold sores, it is important to avoid contact with someone who has an active cold sore. If you have a cold sore, avoid kissing or sharing drinks or utensils with others. It is also important to frequently wash your hands and avoid touching your eyes or mouth with unwashed hands.

6. Duration: Cold sores typically last for 7-10 days, but the initial outbreak may be longer. Recurrent outbreaks tend to be shorter and less severe than the initial outbreak.

7. Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2): While HSV-1 typically causes cold sores around the mouth, HSV-2 usually causes genital herpes. However, it is possible for HSV-1 to cause genital herpes and HSV-2 to cause cold sores, especially in cases of oral sex.

It is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of cold sores. If you experience frequent or severe outbreaks, your doctor may recommend additional treatment options or strategies to reduce the risk of recurrence.