Cold sores are small blisters on or around the lips caused by the herpes simplex virus (usually HSV-1). The World Health Organization estimates that around two-thirds of people under 50 worldwide carry HSV-1. Once you have it, the virus stays in your body and can reactivate.
Imagine feeling the first tingle on your lip, treating it within the hour, and keeping the cold sore small and short-lived, instead of hiding it for a week.
Symptoms
- Tingling, itching or burning on the lip before the sore appears
- Small fluid-filled blisters
- Blisters burst, crust over and heal in about 7–10 days
Common triggers
- Colds, flu and fever
- Stress and tiredness
- Strong sunlight
- Periods
- Injury to the lips
Treatment
- Antiviral creams such as aciclovir, started at the first tingle
- Cold sore patches to protect and hide the sore
- Pain relief and lip balm
- Antiviral tablets for frequent or severe outbreaks, as prescribed
Avoid spreading it
- Do not kiss babies, pregnant women near their due date or people with weak immunity while you have a sore
- Do not share cups, towels, lip balm or cutlery
- Wash hands after touching the sore
- Avoid oral sex while you have a sore
Seek urgent care for a baby with a cold sore or blisters, a cold sore near the eye, or widespread sores in someone with eczema or weak immunity.
“But cold sores are harmless, so it does not matter who I kiss.”
For most adults they are a nuisance, but the virus can be dangerous for newborn babies and people with weak immunity. Avoid kissing babies and sharing items while you have a sore.
Your next step: Keep an antiviral cold sore cream or patch at home, and start it at the first tingle next time.
Source: World Health Organization herpes simplex virus fact sheet; NHS cold sores guidance.
Leave a Reply