What is Herpes?
Cold sores / herpes can be spread in various ways. Oral herpes outbreaks, cold sores, or fever blisters are caused by the herpes simplex type 1 virus (HSV-1), which is contracted by 90% of adults by age 50. Many people who carry HSV-1 do not have any symptoms, and can still spread the virus. However, for some, symptoms can be severe and may require treatment.
What Causes Herpes?
Direct contact to a mouth with the virus is needed to catch it. While herpes is known for being a sexually transmitted infection, kissing someone with the virus can also spread it. The herpes virus cannot survive for long on objects, such as shared cups, straws, or lipstick.
Herpes Symptoms
After the herpes virus is contracted, never many do not show any symptoms, while others have mild or vague symptoms. Cold sore outbreaks initially start as pain or tingling on the lip, then form unsightly, painful, red blisters. Eventually, the blisters pop, ooze, crust over, and flake off before they resolve within one to two weeks.
Herpes Trigger
A weakened immune system is the most common trigger of cold sore outbreaks, such as fatigue, stress, excessive sun exposure, and illnesses. Lasers, chemical peels, or cosmetic treatments near the mouth may also trigger herpes outbreaks, so it is important to inform your provider before procedures.
Herpes Treatment
- Oral anti-viral pills (acyclovir, valacyclovir): treat and prevent cold sore outbreaks
- Topical anti-viral creams: over-the-counter (Abreva) and prescriptions can shorten the duration of the cold sores.
For more information about Cold Sores / Herpes, view some of our articles.