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How Do You Get Cold Sores & Sore Throats?

Viruses can cause a variety of unpleasant illnesses. Some viruses can be easily treated, such as those that cause sore throats. Other viruses, including the one behind cold sores, dissipate but cannot be eliminated.

  1. Cold Sores

    • The herpes simplex virus 1 causes cold sores, or fluid-filled lesions that form on the lips. A tingling sensation signals the formation of a cold sore. The initial infection occurs following contact with an active lesion. This can happen by sharing objects such as utensils or razors and via kissing.

    Sore Throat

    • A sore throat generally develops due to contagious virus or bacteria. Viral causes include the flu and chicken pox. A particular strain of streptococcus bacteria causes the contagious strep throat. Additional causes include allergens such as pollen, irritants such as chemicals, acid reflux, tumors, or a secondary infection related to HIV.

    Treatments

    • Cold sore treatments include topical pain relievers and/or oral antiviral medications. The medications can decrease pain and symptom length, which is typically 10 to 14 days. Antibiotics can treat strep throat due its bacterial origin but are ineffective against viruses. In these cases, throat sprays or lozenges, a humidifier or cool mist vaporizer, and analgesics prove beneficial.

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