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Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex type 1 virus and can be painful and highly contagious. There is no cure, but medication can help shorten outbreaks. Proper hygiene is important to prevent the spread of the virus. See a doctor if the cold sore fills with pus, a fever develops, or if there is eye irritation.
Cold sores are a type of sore that develops on the skin due to a viral infection. They are usually small and can be quite painful. Cold sores, which are actually fluid-filled blisters, are most commonly found on the mouth or nose.
Herpes simplex type 1 (HSVI), which is not the same as herpes that causes genital herpes, is the virus responsible for cold sores. After the blisters first appear, they lie dormant in the skin or nerves at the same site. Stress and illness can cause a new outbreak. Researchers aren’t sure why cold sores show up sometimes and lie dormant at other times.
When cold sores first develop, it can cause an itchy, burning, or tingling sensation. This phase is called the prodromal phase. The next stage can develop within hours of the first stage, or it may take several days. Once cold sores reach the next stage, they become deeply red and blisters form. In some cases, cold sores can start out as many small blisters and then form together to create one large blister.
Cold sores are highly contagious if proper hygiene is not followed. In fact, they can spread easily from one part of the body to another if care is not taken. Therefore, those with cold sores should wash their hands often. This is especially important after touching the face or the area near the cold sore. During a break, one should also avoid sharing utensils or drinks with other people.
Preventing the spread of cold sores is especially important, because there is currently no cure for the virus. If someone gets cold sores on a regular basis or if it gets severe, they may need to take a drug called acyclovir. While this won’t completely eliminate cold sores, it can help shorten the duration of the outbreak and prevent new ones. Care should also be taken to keep cold sores clean and free from infection.
Although cold sores usually clear up on their own, a doctor should be seen if it fills with pus or if the sufferer develops a fever above 100.5° F (about 38.1° C). Eye irritation is also a cause for concern. Similarly, anyone with a disease that affects the immune system, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or cancer, should see a doctor if a cold sores outbreak occurs.
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