3.7 billion people in the world under the age of 50 suffer from cold sores, according to the WHO. Below, we explain more about this disease.
What is herpes and what are its types?
According to the WHO, cold sores are caused by a contagious type 1 virus called (HSV-1) which can cause ulcers in the mouth and adjacent areas. Meanwhile, the type 2 virus (HSV-2) is spread through sexual contact, causing genital herpes.
Causes of cold sores
Cold sores or commonly known as cold sores can be spread from one person to another through close contact, such as kissing, or by using items contaminated by an infected person such as cups, toothbrushes or towels. When a person has cold sores, it is important to wash their hands frequently to prevent the spread of the virus to other parts of the body or to other people. If you are frequently exposed to the sun for long periods of time, the virus could be activated, so it is recommended to apply lipstick with sun protection to the area where the blister usually forms. On the other hand, avoid kisses and contact with people's skin when there are blisters. Likewise, personal items such as towels, lipstick, cutlery should not be shared.
Once a person has had cold sores, the virus remains hidden in the nerve cells located in the skin. As a result, this virus will reappear throughout the life of the infected person.
Why do cold sores come back?
There are factors that increase the chances of the virus becoming active such as:
- Fever.
- Viral infection.
- Hormonal changes.
- Fatigue.
- Changes in the immune system.
- Solar exposition.
- Stress.
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Cold sore symptoms
According to the Mayo Clinic, the virus generally has the following stages:
Tingling and itching: There are people who feel these symptoms on their lips a day before a small, hard spot appears in this area.
Blisters: Fluid-filled blisters frequently appear on the edge of the lips, and they can even form near the nose or cheeks.
Discharge and scabs: These blisters can rupture, leaving open sores, which later turn into a scab.
Other common symptoms of cold sores are:
- Fever.
- Muscle pains.
- Headache.
- Sore throat.
While, if it is the first outbreak, symptoms may appear up to 20 days after being exposed to the virus. It may take 2 to 3 weeks for the blisters to completely heal. When it reappears again, it will often occur in the same place and is usually less severe than the first outbreak.
On the other hand, if any of these symptoms occur, it is important to attend a medical appointment so that a professional can evaluate the case.
cold sore treatment
Currently, there is no cure for cold sores. However, the treatment seeks to control the virus. It includes antiviral medications such as famciclovir, acyclovir and valacyclovir, which reduce the duration of symptoms. Treatment is most effective if it begins within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms. Additionally, the WHO to relieve symptoms recommends: Drinking cold drinks, avoiding sun exposure and wearing cool clothing will help maintain adequate body temperature to counteract herpes.
In conclusion, cold sores are a virus that has no cure, but it does have treatment. It is important that people attend a consultation with a dermatologist if they present any of the aforementioned symptoms so that they are treated in time, as this increases the effectiveness of the treatment. We remind you that, if you are BMI clients, you can access the medical network, learn more about it, by clicking here: https://www.bmicos.com/ecuador/red-medica/
If you want to know more types of herpes, we invite you to read the following blog: *link to be added*
References:
Brazier, Y. (2020, January 19). Everything you need to know about cold sores. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/es/323888#tratamiento
Cold sores – diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic. (2023, August 2). https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/cold-sore/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20371023
Cold sores – symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic. (2023, August 2). https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/diseases-conditions/cold-sore/symptoms-causes/syc-20371017
World Health Organization: WHO & World Health Organization: WHO. (2023, April 5). herpes simplex virus. https://www.who.int/es/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/herpes-simplex-virus
World Health Organization: WHO. (2020, May 1). Herpes affects billions of people around the world. World Health Organization: WHO. https://www.who.int/es/news/item/01-05-2020-billions-worldwide-living-with-herpes
