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March 18, 2010  
EDUCATION CENTER: Medical Conditions
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  • Cold Sores


    Overview:

    Quick Reference

    Cold sores, also known as fever blisters are the result of a virus called Herpes Simplex-1. Herpes Simplex-1 is a virus that causes the eruption of painful sores on or around the mouth. The virus spreads from casual contact with the sore and is highly contagious. Herpes Simplex-1 infection can manifest without a cold sore on the lips—typically the first time someone contracts the virus, the symptoms are a fever, swollen glands and painful sores in the mouth of throat. Herpes Simplex Virus-1 will always remain in the body, in a dormant state, until something activates it and a cold sore forms. Colds, infections, illness, injury, sun exposure, and emotional distress can trigger an outbreak.

    Detailed Information

    Cold sores are generally red or purple in color. They range from mild discomfort to moderate pain. Onset generally begins with a painful tingling around the mouth. Within a day or two, the tingling progresses to a cluster of tiny blisters. The cluster develops into an open sore, which crusts over and heals. The cycle of cold sores is about one week.

    Treatment/Prevention

    The best way to prevent Herpes Simplex infection is to avoid contact with someone who has it. Avoid touching or kissing active blisters, as they can be spread from the blister to the eyes or genitals, or from person to person. Frequent hand washing is an important way to limit transmission of the virus.

    Over-the-counter creams or ointments are available to ease the discomfort. Physicians may prescribe anti-viral medications that may speed the healing process, if used at the onset of the blister. Some people start taking vitamin C when they feel a cold sore beginning; it has not been proven that this is effective, but advocates feel this shortens the cold core cycle.
     

    Last updated: 28-Nov-00

     
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