A Guide to Cold sores

Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), and are commonly found in the population. They are clusters of blisters that are filled with fluid, on the mucous membrane or on the skin. The entire area may become inflamed, red and painful to the touch.

Causes
The HSV-1 virus is the most common type, and is linked to cold sores of oral herpes. The other type is HSV-2 which is linked to genital herpes.

HSV is transmitted by close personal contact. The virus infiltrates the epidermis cells, leading to the eruption of blisters. From here, the virus travels to the roots of the nerves. After it reaches the roots, the virus becomes latent or inactive. When an individual suffers from a weakening of the immunity system like during a cold, the virus is reactivated again, and the blisters return.

Symptoms
Different people can show varying symptoms. In some people, only mild symptoms are seen, or even no symptoms at all. The first blisters are generally seen between 1 & 3 weeks after contracting the virus. First, there is a tingling sensation in the skin. This is followed by the appearance of blisters filled with fluid. These blisters are soon covered by scabs that usually fall off on their own, after about 10 days. In children, the infection may also be followed by fever, body aches and infections of the mouth and throat.

Prevention

Avoid touching the sores directly.
Remember to wash your hands after you have touched your lips.
Don’t pick at sores because this can cause a bacterial infection, or cause the virus to spread elsewhere in the body.
Build up your body’s immunity by eating a balanced diet and exercising.
Exposure to sunlight may cause reactivation of the virus – use a sun block to protect yourself.

Complications
Bacteria may infect the sores leading to infection. Infection, if it is spread to the eye region, can affect vision.
In rare instances, the sores can spread to other parts of the body. In case of large cold sores, it could be a sign of pneumonia or HIV.

Treatment
Treatment for cold sores consists of an application of aciclovir 5% cream. This has to be applied on the sores 5 times a day over a period of 5 days, starting as soon as you notice the first symptoms. Aciclovir cream is available at any pharmacy.

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