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Cold Sore

Medical Questions » Cold Sore
Name: Cold Sore
Also known as: Herpes Simplex Type 1 Infection
A skin infection, usually around the nose or mouth, with the virus Herpes simplex type 1.
Causes of Cold Sore
Initially, the infection is caught as a child, when it is a simple mouth infection. The virus then migrates to the nerve endings around the lips and nose, and remains inactive there for many years. It may later reactivate at times of stress or illness to cause cold sores. It is passed from one person to another by direct contact (eg. kissing). 60% of the population are infected and remain carriers throughout their lives. Sores are uncommon before five years of age, and the incidence decreases in old age. Recurrences tend to develop at the same spot.
Symptoms of Cold Sore
Characterized by redness and soreness of the affected area, followed a day or two later by an eruption of small blisters, which rapidly burst to leave a shallow, weeping, painful ulcer. In severe cases, there may be a mild fever, and the lymph nodes in the neck may become tender and enlarged.
Tests for Cold Sore
None normally necessary, but if required the diagnosis can be confirmed by taking special swabs from the sore.
Treatment for Cold Sore
If treated by appropriate creams and lotions immediately the redness and discomfort is felt and before the blisters form, it may be possible to stop further progress. Once the cold sore is established, a cure is not normally possible, but drying, antiseptic and anesthetic creams or lotions may be used. Patients who are severely affected on a regular basis may use expensive aciclovir or famciclovir tablets continuously to prevent infections.
Complications of Cold Sore of its treatment
An additional bacterial infection, is the only common complication.
Likely Outcome of Cold Sore
The sore heals and the pain eases in about a week. Some patients have only one attack of cold sores in their lives, while others develop one every month. Over many years, most patients find that their attacks become less frequent.
       
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