Herpes Doctor

So what is a cold sore?

A cold sore is the common term for Oral
Herpes which is caused
by the virus Herpes Simplex 1.
It has nothing to do with having a
cold although there are certain similarities between a common
cold and Herpes Simplex 1:

• Both are viruses
• They can't be cured
• They come back again and again
• They are both very common
• They are both fairly harmless

It is estimated that 50-80% of the world's population has Herpes
Simplex and many don't even know it. Herpes Simplex has probably
been around as long as mankind.

Once you've caught Oral Herpes - cold sores, it stays in your body for life
although it may be years before you have an outbreak.
You may experience only 1 outbreak in a lifetime or several a month, it depends
entirely on the individual.

How are Cold Sores Spread?

The symptoms of an outbreak of Oral Herpes is a rash around the
mouth area that turns into blisters which turn into a a dry scab.
There is usually no scarring.

You catch Herpes Simplex from skin to skin contact with the
affected area on a person who has the virus. It is mostly
contagious during an outbreak but also just before an outbreak
and in the viral shedding period when the virus reproduces itself.
The most common way to contract oral herpes is via kissing, also dry kisses. You
may get cold sores from giving oral sex to someone with Genital
Herpes just as you may get Genital Herpes from receiving oral sex from
someone with Oral Herpes in outbreak. Genital Herpes is caused
by Herpes Simplex 2 which is very similar to Herpes Simplex 1.

Treating And Preventing Cold Sores

You can and should treat Oral Herpes outbreaks. You use a cream
containing an antiviral agent, either Penciclovir or Acyclovir. The
cream is available over the counter from pharmacies but you are advised
to see a doctor for proper diagnosis. The cream will reduce the
frequency, duration and severity of outbreaks as well as reduce the
risk of spreading.

The most common antiviral brands are Vectavir and Zovirax.

When you have a cold sore outbreak you must take precautions to avoid passing it on:

• Use an antiviral cream such as Vectavir or Zovirax
• Avoid kissing and oral sex
• Avoid touching the affected area
• Wash your hands regularly

To avoid outbreaks you should keep your immune defense system boosted
as viruses thrive on a low immune system. Maintain a healthy
diet, exercise, get the sleep you need and try to avoid stressful
situations. This way you may keep the virus latent for longer periods.

Related Links

• The Herpes treatment page
• Preventing cold sore outbreaks
• Minimizing the risk of passing on Oral Herpes
• Should you see a Doctor for cold sores?

Still Need Help?

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