Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are painful, fluid-filled sores that often appear on the cheeks, lips, and tongue. They are usually caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). It’s estimated that 3.7 billion people worldwide have HSV-1, with about 90% of adults being infected, though many do not experience symptoms.
Even though treatment can make cold sores go away faster, it doesn’t cure the virus itself. This means some people might get cold sores often. Thankfully, there are treatments available to ease the pain until they heal.
Cold sores can show up on different parts of the body, and the first sign is usually a burning feeling on the skin where the sore will form. Once the sore appears, symptoms can include pain, swelling, and irritation. Kids might show symptoms like drooling and a lack of appetite.
The virus can lay dormant in the nervous system cells, called neurons, for a while. Various stresses on the body can trigger new or worsening cold sores. Stressful situations that might lead to a flare-up include physical and emotional stressors.
Doctors can often diagnose a cold sore by simply looking at it. If there’s any doubt, they may test a swab or fluid sample from the sore to confirm HSV-1 or rule out other infections. It’s worth noting that cold sores can resemble canker sores, but canker sores typically appear inside the mouth and aren’t as contagious.
Treatments can lessen the frequency and severity of cold sores but won’t cure HSV-1. This means that cold sores can reappear even after treatment. Antiviral medications are common treatments, which help slow down the virus and reduce the number of cold sores and their duration.
Antiviral medication can come in different forms and doesn’t always require a prescription. Besides antiviral meds, other treatments can also help with cold sores. If you get cold sores several times a year, discuss antiviral options with your healthcare provider to shorten your next episode.
HSV-1 spreads through close contact, so during an outbreak, anything touching your lips could pass it to someone else. Avoiding things like kissing and sharing utensils can help prevent spreading the virus. Also, protecting your lips from sun exposure with sunscreen can help stop flare-ups.
Some medical conditions can make cold sores worse. If you have such conditions, talking to your provider about antiviral options is crucial. This is because these conditions can weaken your immune system, making it harder to fight the infection. Without treatment, cold sores might persist, and there’s a higher risk of other infections.
Cold sores can be hard to hide due to their visibility and discomfort. Luckily, antiviral treatments can help lower both the frequency and duration of outbreaks. If you’re dealing with HSV-1 or active cold sores, consult your healthcare professional for the best treatment and preventive measures suitable for you.
