Cold Sore
Causes of cold sores
Source: NHS
In this topic (4)
Cold sores are usually caused by the herpes simplex virus.
In most cases the virus is passed on in early childhoodfor example, when a child is kissed by a family member or friend with a cold sore.
The virus passes through the skin and travels up the nerves, where it lies inactive (dormant) until it's triggered at a later date.
Cold sore triggers
Factors thought to trigger outbreaks of cold sores include:
- having another infection, such as a RTIs (respiratory tract infections)
- having a high temperature (fever)
- emotional upset or psychological stress
- tiredness and fatigue
- an injury to the affected area
- menstruation (periods)
- strong sunlight
However, in many cases there's no obvious trigger for an outbreak.
Genital herpes
Cold sores can happen after having oral sex with a man or woman who has genital herpes .
Articles for Cold Sore
Causes of cold sores
Cold sores are usually caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Occasionally, they can also be caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).
Introduction
Cold sores are small blisters that develop on the lips or around the mouth. They're caused by the herpes simplex virus and usually clear up without treatment within 7 to 10 days
Symptoms of cold sores
You won't usually have any symptoms when you first develop the herpes simplex virus (a primary infection). An outbreak of cold sores may occur some time later.
Treating cold sores
Cold sores usually clear up without treatment within 7 to 10 days. Antiviral creams can be used to ease your symptoms and speed up the healing time.