Definition Cold sores are oral ulcers, or breaks in the skin or mucous membrane. Cold sores usually appear on the lip border, mouth, and face.
What is going on in the body? Cold sores are generally caused by the virus herpes simplex Type 1. This virus is incurable, but there are some drugs that can decrease the symptoms of the disease. Herpes simplex type 2 usually causes genital lesions.
What are the signs and symptoms of the condition? Symptoms include:
blisters.
pain at the site of the blister. Sometimes pain or tingling can precede the blister by as much as 48 hours.
Cold sores can appear at any time, but often the blisters show up when a person is ill or stressed. Usually the first outbreak is the most painful. Outbreaks can last from 7 to 14 days. Sometimes outbreaks occur years apart, while other times the episodes are separated by just weeks.
What are the causes and risks of the condition? Herpes simplex type 1 accounts for virtually all cold sores.
What can be done to prevent the condition? Herpes simplex type 1 is very difficult to prevent. It is easily spread by children through water fountains and through other objects that they have touched after touching their mouths. Herpes simplex type 2 is associated with genital lesions and can be prevented by avoiding contact with these lesions. Cold sores are often triggered by exposure to sunlight. If a person is going to be in the sun it is important to use a lip balm with sunscreen.
How is the condition diagnosed? The diagnosis can be made several different ways, including:
viral cultures, which involve growing the virus in a laboratory.
viral cultures observed under a microscope.
visual examination by a doctor. It is impossible to tell the difference between type 1 and type 2 by just looking at the ulcer.
What are the long-term effects of the condition? These viruses are incurable, and will stay with a person all of his or her life.
What are the risks to others? Herpes simplex type 1 is highly contagious. A person should practice good hand washing techniques. A person should also avoid kissing someone during an outbreak of cold sores.
What are the treatments for the condition? Most cold sores settle within a few days without treatment. In severe episode, there are also antiviral ointments that a doctor may prescribe to decrease irritation from the cold sore such as acyclovir.
What happens after treatment for the condition? People can have recurring outbreaks of herpes simplex type 1 and type 2 lesions.
How is the condition monitored? A person should call their doctor if:
sores spread
any sores occur near the eye
a sore lasts more than 2 weeks
Author: Reviewer: HealthAnswers Australia Medical Review Panel Editor: Dr David Taylor, Chief Medical Officer HealthAnswers Australia Last Updated: 1/10/2001 Contributors Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request
