Cold sores
Background to cold sores
Cold sores area caused by the herpes virus, usually HSV1. These viruses are spread by contact with body secretions (such as saliva) from an infected person. Common transmission methods include kissing, sharing utensils or towels, and sometimes oral sexual contact. The infection can take hold on mucous membranes (usually inside the nose or mouth) or on areas of broken/damaged/cut skin.
After the first infection, the viruses stay in the area that is initially infected in an inactive form. In many patients, circumstances such as stress, skin damage or low immunity, can allow the cold sores to keep coming back.
What is the impact of a cold sore?
Before the rash comes out, people can experience burning, itching, tingling and/or pain in the area where the cold sore is about to develop. This part of the infection can last 6-48 hours, and for people who get cold sore regularly, it will often be a sign for them to seek treatment.
When they emerge, cold sores look like blisters and often occur in small groups clustered together. These will then eventually burst and crust. The infection is most easily passed on when the bursting occurs, so care must be taken to avoid sharing items and physical contact that may spread the virus.
Treatments
- It is important to start cold sore treatment as early as possible, so speak to a clinician as soon as you can.
- Cold sores can initially be managed with over-the-counter creams.
- Where symptoms cannot be managed with over-the-counter treatments, our clinicians may prescribe anti-viral tablets.
- Book an appointment below to discuss your symptoms with one of our clinicians.
For more information
Visit the NHS website
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