Cold sores, also commonly known as fever blisters or oral herpes, are caused by HSV-1, or the herpes simplex virus. Many find these sores to be irritating, painful and ugly, and it is a highly common affliction, being suffered by 4 out 5 people in the population. Though rarely a true danger, they can cause blindness when spread to the eyes, and can be fatal in those with suppressed immune systems.
Because of their very common nature, society is not much taken aback by cold sores, unlike other nefarious viruses that may cause symptoms that are easily seen. Being highly contagious, one has to take particular notice not to spread them to other mucous membranes or transmit the virus through a skin tear, being very cautious around others and when they touch themselves.
From contraction of the virus to the first physical manifestations, a period of one or two weeks may pass. The first outbreak can cause a sore throat, making it hard to swallow, fever, swollen glands, and also blisters in and around the mouth, nose and throat; the first outbreak is usually worse than any other.
Many causes can be attributed to triggering a cold sore outbreak. Chapping of the lips or sunburn, as well as a fever, emotional or physical stressors, or an illness can trigger an outbreak. Pregnancy and menstruation can also bring out an outbreak due to hormonal levels fluctuating in the body. If symptoms of oral herpes start to show in anyone that has an immunity deficiency, there should be no hesitation in seeing or speaking with a doctor.
There is no permanent sure known for cold sores, but there ways to help improve or ease the associated symptoms of itching, redness, tingling, burning or pain. There is a vast array of creams and ointments available by prescription or over the counter at many stores, and there is a slight possibility that these medications may even be able to cut the length of an outbreak. For seemingly non-stop outbreaks, a doctor may wish to prescribe medications to be applied or taken orally on a regular basis.
The herpes simplex virus is not curable, so sufferers can only treat symptoms. Washing hands often, especially after touching a lesion, and not touching other parts of the body can help prevent the spread of cold sores to other mucous membranes or other people.
The author has been in the field of cold sore removal for a long time and maintains a website about how to remove cold sores where you can get answers to the rest of your questions.