What can foil your attempts to project health and confidence? A red, oozing – crusty even – cold sore ought to do it.
Few conditions can annihilate your social life the way cold sores (aka fever blisters) can. Cold sores seem to strike when they’re least welcome – yes, usually before a party or some special occasion. Anyone who has suffered the pain and embarrassment of a cold sore has probably been through the misery many times, and know the symptoms all too well: that tingly itchy, hot sensation at the edge of your lip. Cold sores are like annoying houseguests, they just keep coming back, no matter how inconvenient you found their last visit!
Up to 80% of us are infected with the herpes virus that causes them. This virus is not curable and stays with you for life.
What causes cold sores?
They are caused by the herpes simplex virus. There are 2 types, called type 1 and type 2. Either type can be caught on any part of the body. The lips and the genitals are the most popular places. On the face, herpes simplex type 1 is more likely to recur than type 2. So, if you’re getting repeated cold sores, then you most likely have herpes simplex type 1.
How are cold sores passed on?
Cold sores are only caught by direct skin contact with the affected area, not through sharing cups, cutlery or towels. Experts are clear about this, though you may see the opposite being stated on the internet or in leaflets. So, kissing someone who has an active cold sore is a no-no. Oral sex is a common way of passing on cold sores from one person’s mouth to another person’s genital area – or vice versa. Sometimes it can be caught on the hand or finger where broken skin allows entry. You cannot give cold sores to someone who already gets them.
What do they look like?
First a small red patch appears, forming a blister or a cluster of blisters. The blister then bursts, leaving a raw area which as it heals, forms a scab. The scab may crack as you move your mouth which will delay the healing process. The sore will heal itself in about 7 – 10 days.
Why do they reappear?
Microbiologists at the University of Pennsylvania indicate that when oral herpes invades your cells, it makes a molecule called micro RNA that preserves the infected cells. This lets the virus hide in a dormant state until a stressor causes a flare up.
What triggers recurrence?
It’s a myth that cold sores only appear during winter; there are several triggers that can cause an outbreak. Triggers vary from person to person: try to figure out what causes your outbreaks, so you can try to prevent them. The most common reasons for recurrences are illnesses, stress, and tiredness, being run down, menstruation, too much alcohol or UV light from the sun.
How can a cold sore be treated?
Left alone a cold sore will normally last 14 days. There are plenty over the counter medicines to relieve some of the pain and discomfort. Cold sores will heal quicker when kept moistened. Beware of ointments with drying agents like alcohol. If you get cold sores more than six times a year, talk to your doctor about treatment options.
Can anything be done to prevent cold sores?
A healthy lifestyle can help to keep your immune system in good shape and make cold sores less likely. Your best defence would be to avoid any triggers that you’ve identified. Boost your immune system by eating healthy foods, getting enough exercise as well as enough sleep. Remember that sugar can slow down your recovery – fighting white blood cells become less active, so go easy on the sweets. Always prevent your lips from drying and cracking (which will make them more susceptible to infection).
Remember, don’t allow your immune system to be compromised this winter. Cold sores usually clear within a week or two and will seem bigger to you than they appear to anyone else!
Source: www.webmd.com, www.mayoclinic.org, www.herpes.org.uk, www.womanshealthmag.com,www.disabledworld.com, www.prevention.com, usnews.com
DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.
