Cold sores are a common viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) . Although less common, herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) can also cause cold sores, especially when transmitted through oral-genital contact.
Causes of cold sores:
Cold sores are highly contagious and can be transmitted from person to person through direct contact with the sores or through contact with infected saliva. The main modes of transmission include:
- Direct contact : Such as kissing or sharing utensils.
- Indirect contact : Through objects that have been in contact with the virus, such as towels, lip balms, or utensils.
- Autoinoculation : When a person touches the sore and then touches other areas, such as the eyes or genitals.
Symptoms:
Cold sores usually occur in several stages:
- Tingling and itching : Before the sores appear, many people feel a burning, itching, or pain in the affected area, which can last 1 to 2 days.
- Appearance of small blisters : After the itching phase, small, fluid-filled blisters appear. These may cluster in one area, typically around the lips, but can also affect the nose or gums.
- Blister rupture : The blisters break, leaving painful, red ulcers. During this phase, the virus is most contagious.
- Crust or scab : The ulcers dry out, forming a scab that eventually falls off.
The outbreak typically lasts 7 to 10 days. Although the sores may heal, the virus remains dormant in the body, and in times of stress or a weakened immune system, the outbreak can recur.
Factors that can trigger an outbreak:
- Stress : One of the most common factors that reactivate the virus.
- Sun exposure : Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can activate the virus in some people.
- Hormonal changes : Such as those that occur during menstruation or pregnancy.
- Infections : Other infections, such as a cold or fever, can cause the virus to become active.
- Weakening of the immune system : This can occur due to illness, medical treatments such as chemotherapy, or the use of immunosuppressive medications.
Treatment:
Although there is no definitive cure for cold sores, there are treatments that can help reduce the duration and severity of outbreaks. Some of the most common treatments include:
- Antiviral medications : Such as acyclovir , valacyclovir , or famciclovir , which can shorten the time of infection and decrease symptoms if taken early in life.
- Antiviral creams : Some topical creams may also be helpful in relieving symptoms and reducing the spread of the virus.
- Pain medication : To relieve discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen , or numbing ointments, can be used.
- Cold sore creams or moisturizers : Using lip balms or moisturizers can relieve the dryness and pain of cold sores.
Prevention:
To prevent the spread of cold sores and reduce the risk of outbreaks, some precautions can be followed:
- Avoid direct contact with the sores, especially during an outbreak.
- Do not share utensils, towels, lip balms, or other personal items that may come into contact with saliva.
- Use sunscreen on your lips if you are prone to breakouts from sun exposure.
- Maintain a strong immune system with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management.
When to see a doctor?
It is advisable to consult a doctor if:
- Outbreaks are very frequent or painful.
- Cold sores do not improve with over-the-counter treatment.
- The sores spread or become very large.
- You have trouble eating, drinking, or speaking because of pain.
- You have a weakened immune system, which can make cold sores more severe.
Learn more in the video below.
