Cold sores, or herpes labialis, are blisters caused by viruses, which commonly appear on the lips or around the mouth and occasionally the nose of the sufferer. They are a common condition, but they often cause embarrassment due to their raw appearance. More than thirty percent of people who have contracted cold sores will be visited by this condition more than once in their lifetimes. Cold sores are caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus-1 infection (HSV-1). There are two types of HSV infections. HSV-1 causes cold sores, and HSV-2 is responsible for both herpes in the genital area as well as cold sores.
Most people will have symptoms beforehand which signal the imminent appearance of a cold sore attack. This could include: feeling tired the day before the sores appear or a numbness or tingling sensation around the area where the cold sore outbreak will occur. Learning to recognize the early warning signs, referred to as Prodromal Symptoms, in advance can allow for an early treatment. Cold sores usually last between one and two weeks, and the following may be one of the way they appear: a feeling of numbness, tingling sensation, redness or swelling.
If not treated at this early stage, small, tender blisters may appear. These blisters break, and a most and painful sore will appear. A scab, which protects the sore, may form and eventually fall off. Tenderness and soreness may take longer to go away.
Cold sores can be caused by a number of reasons, including the following:
- Physical or emotional stress
- Trauma or injury to the skin, which may cause it to weaken and be susceptible to a viral infection
- Flu or fever
- Physical irritation to the mouth, such as a visit to the dentist
- Medication which leads to a suppressed immune system
- Hormonal changes such as pregnancy and menstruation
- Extreme weather conditions, such as heat and wind chill factors, and ultraviolet radiation such as extreme exposure to the sun
- Respiratory tract infections, including the cold virus, which may trigger a reaction within the otherwise dormant cold sure virus
HSV infections are contagious and care should be taken to prevent spreading it to other people. The virus can be contracted through kissing, saliva or even close contact with the person who has it. The most contagious period is when the person has blister-like sores. To reduce the risk of acquiring it, try the following:
- Avoid kissing or cuddling someone who has it
- Avoid oral sex, as the virus can be transferred and you can experience sores on your genitals
- Avoid sharing cups, towels, razors, lipsticks, etc.
- Wash hands constantly after contact with a person who has the infection
- Stay out of the sun and wind and use a UV protected cream when outdoors
- Learn to cope with stress through meditation, exercise and alternative remedies
- Get plenty of rest
If you do contract the virus, using a cold compress may temporarily reduce the swelling and pain. Non-prescription treatments can include abreva and lipactin or analgesics. There are several prescription treatments for the virus as well.
You can't prevent or cure cold sores, but with caution and preventive care, it's possible to avoid contracting them.
