Cold Sore
An eruption of the HERPES SIMPLEX virus 1 (HSV1) in the form of a sore with a crusty scab, most commonly on the lips. Less commonly HSV2, the variation of the herpes simplex VIRUS that causes GENITAL HERPES, causes sores around the MOUTH. Which variation of the herpes virus that is responsible does not matter. People sometimes refer to cold sores as FEVER blisters because they tend to appear with fever or during viral infections such as COLDS; doctors believe viral infections are among the triggers that activate HSV1. Hormonal shifts during MENSTRUATION and exposure to the sun also appear to activate HSV1.
HSV1 lies dormant in the nerve endings in the SKIN near the sites where cold sores have previously occurred and, when activated, causes new sores to erupt. Many people experience itching or tingling at the site in the 24 to 36 hours before a cold sore erupts. Doctors call this the prodrome stage. When sores are present the herpes virus is highly contagious and easily spread to other body locations as well as to other people through contact or shared items such as drinking glasses, straws, and eating utensils. Rubbing the EYE after finger contact with a cold sore can spread the virus to the eye, where it can infect the CORNEA and cause scarring that can lead to blindness. Frequent HAND WASHING is an effective method for restricting the spread of the virus.
Treatment options are limited. Doctors may prescribe ANTIVIRAL MEDICATIONS for recurrent or severe episodes of cold sores. These medications appear to shorten the course of the INFECTION from the usual 7 to 10 days to 3 to 5 days when taken or applied at the first indication (ideally in the prodrome stage) of activation. Numerous topical products to provide relief and moisturization are available over the counter, though these preparations do not shorten the course of the infection. Some people have fewer cold sores when they take lysine supplements. Cold sores typically heal without scarring or other complications.
HSV1 lies dormant in the nerve endings in the SKIN near the sites where cold sores have previously occurred and, when activated, causes new sores to erupt. Many people experience itching or tingling at the site in the 24 to 36 hours before a cold sore erupts. Doctors call this the prodrome stage. When sores are present the herpes virus is highly contagious and easily spread to other body locations as well as to other people through contact or shared items such as drinking glasses, straws, and eating utensils. Rubbing the EYE after finger contact with a cold sore can spread the virus to the eye, where it can infect the CORNEA and cause scarring that can lead to blindness. Frequent HAND WASHING is an effective method for restricting the spread of the virus.
Treatment options are limited. Doctors may prescribe ANTIVIRAL MEDICATIONS for recurrent or severe episodes of cold sores. These medications appear to shorten the course of the INFECTION from the usual 7 to 10 days to 3 to 5 days when taken or applied at the first indication (ideally in the prodrome stage) of activation. Numerous topical products to provide relief and moisturization are available over the counter, though these preparations do not shorten the course of the infection. Some people have fewer cold sores when they take lysine supplements. Cold sores typically heal without scarring or other complications.
Comments (1)
This is a mouth ulcer, especially pain.So, pay attention to oral hygiene.
Healthy habits that develop in everyday life.