Cold sores are small blister-like spots that appear in or around the outside of the mouth and are caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus. There is no cure for cold sores, but there are ways to treat the symptoms and prevent new outbreaks. Show
What are the symptoms of cold sores?Cold sores start with an itchy and tingling sensation usually on the mouth, lips or nose and may form small blisters that crust after 3 days. Cold sores usually clear up after 2 weeks without leaving any scars. They can be highly contagious, even when the blisters aren’t present. The virus can spread between people by direct physical contact, such as kissing, skin-to-skin contact and sharing drink containers, eating utensils, towels or toothbrushes with someone who already has a cold sore. As well as a blister-like spot, the following symptoms are also common: CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the mouth problems Symptom Checker and find out if you need to seek medical help. What causes cold sores?There are 2 types of herpes simplex virus. Cold sores are usually caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Herpes simplex virus type 2 causes most cases of genital herpes. However, both viruses can cause either cold sores or genital herpes. About 80 per cent of adults are infected with HSV-1. Most people are infected when they are young and the infection lasts for life. However, the virus can remain dormant (inactive) in many people, meaning that cold sores may never appear. Various factors can cause the virus to become active resulting in one or more cold sores. They can include:
When should I see my doctor?You may need to see a doctor if you have more severe symptoms or a weakened immune system — if, for example, you have HIV or you are having cancer treatment. It’s also a good idea to see your doctor if:
Antibiotics may be needed if the cold sore gets infected. FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — The Service Finder can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services. ASK YOUR DOCTOR — Preparing for an appointment? Use our Question Builder for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist. How are cold sores treated?MedicationsAntiviral creams or ointments such as aciclovir, famciclovir and valaciclovir should be used in the first few days of a cold sore outbreak when a tingling sensation or a raised sore or blister is first noticed. These are available without prescription from pharmacies and other shops and supermarkets. A single dose of antiviral tablets is also available from your pharmacist without a prescription. Talk to your pharmacist to see if they are right for you. Your pharmacist may also recommend products to treat the short-term symptoms of a cold sore. Povidone-iodine ointments (commonly known as Betadine) may reduce symptoms in some people. If you are in pain, paracetamol may be helpful. Alternatively, get advice from your doctor on medicines you can take. If you have frequent severe cold sores, your doctor may prescribe an oral antiviral medicine to stop the virus from reactivating. Complementary medicinesSome complementary medicines have been promoted as preventing cold sores. One of these products is an amino acid called lysine — but there is no evidence that it is effective. Self-helpIf you have a cold sore there are several things you can do to help manage the condition.
Can cold sores be prevented?There are steps you can take to prevent spreading cold sores to others if you have them:
There are also ways to prevent spreading cold sores from erupting again:
For most people, cold sores get better in time with over-the-counter treatments and self-care. However, for people with weakened immune systems, cold sores can be more severe and spread more widely. What triggers cold sores outbreak?What causes cold sores? Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus. Once the herpes simplex virus is in you, it can cause outbreaks of cold sores. Cold sore outbreaks are often triggered by exposure to hot sun, cold wind, a cold or other illness, a weak immune system, or even stress.
How do I stop a cold sore from flaring?There are antiviral drugs that can help cold sores heal faster, including acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir and penciclovir. If you're having frequent outbreaks or experiencing some of the serious side effects of having a cold sore, your doctor may consider prescribing antiviral medication.
Why does my cold sore keep coming back?Cold sores recur because the herpes simplex virus which causes them doesn't leave the body. While cold sores, a common symptom of the virus, disappear, the virus stays dormant until something triggers another outbreak.
Are cold sores caused by being run down?Fatigue is another possible answer when it comes to the question, what causes a cold sore outbreak? Feeling tired and run down can make you vulnerable to cold sores. Lower energy stores tax your immune system, making it harder for your body to deal with viruses, including the cold sore virus.
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