Cold Sores

Cold Sores - Why do so many people find it hard to understand certain medical terms that refer to different diseases and conditions e.g. the Herpes simplex (HSV) infection being one of those. In more understanding terms Herpes simplex is more commonly known as to suffering from cold sores. Herpes simplex is the main cause behind cold sores. Cold sores are not rare in fact they are as common as the common cold, cold sores are characterised by clusters of fluid-filled blisters which appear on reddish swollen areas of the skin or on the mucous membranes. Mouth blisters are painful and can reappear even after treatment. Cold sores leave no visible scarring, This virus has two sorts - HSV-1 is the more common of the two, it normally causes cold sores (oral herpes). And HSV-2 involves the genital area (genital herpes). A great percentage of adults 80% in fact have antibodies against HSV-1 in their blood followed by the lesser number of 25 per cent of the grown up population who have antibodies against HSV-2. Are cold sore infectious “yes” they can be transmitted through close contact, for example kissing another person on the lips. Herpes simplex attacks the cells of the epidermis, better known to us all as the outer layer of the skin, which of course is the reason for why the fluid-filled blister type sores appear. This infection is more known or referred to as a virus which moves from the epidermis along the nerve channels to the roots of the nerves where it then becomes stationary. If you suffer from cold sores then you must make sure to use your own towel when bathing so that no other person in the household can get infected. Symptoms can differ for each individual and because of this so may the treatments to clear or cure the virus. Normally the first outbreak erupts from one week up to three after the virus has been contracted. One of the first signs of an outbreak is a discomforting tingle on the skin. It is at this time that you may see fluid-filled blisters appearing. Cold sores that have scabbed over usually more often than not fall off after eight to ten days. The HSV can keep on spreading until all the sores are covered in scabs. If young children are infected then you will notice the virus tends to affect the mouth and throat. Children tend to fever up and suffer aches and pains at the time of infection... Avoid close contact with anyone with cold sores. Remember that this type of infection can locate itself on other body parts like the fingers and genitals. Always wash your hands after contact even with your own mouth. Never pick the sores because this could cause a bacterial infection hence causing more problems when trying to rid this health concern. Healthy eating of good nutricous food can help strengthen the body’s defences against most viruses. Your doctor will be able to tell you what the right foods are for to help you prevent viruses and infections happening. Cold sores not only look unsightly on the mouth they also feel a lot bigger if touched by the tongue.