Cold Sores (Herpes Simplex)
This page has been designed to answer common questions regarding cold sores and their treatment. If you would like to seek an online consultation or treatment for your problem, please do post your question in the question box on the right. The FAQ section and other links in the top menu bar, should give you all the information you need, regarding the consultation process.
Best wishes,
Consultant Dermatologist & Dermatopathologist
Cold sore is the common name for the grouped blisters caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus. Usually its the type 1 virus (HSV-1 ) that causes this, though occasionally the type 2 virus (HSV-2, which predominantly causes genital herpes) can cause it too.
How do you get a cold sore?
The virus is usually spread from direct contact with someone infected though rarely, it can be caused by touching something that some one infected, may have touched (if the blister fluid is on that object).
What are the symptoms of cold sore/ Herpes?
Cold sores/ Herpes usually present as grouped blisters around the mouth and nose (though any part of the body), associated with a tingling sensation. Blisters usually last 1-2 weeks and heal with a scab, without usually leaving any scars.
Treatment of Herpes/ Cold Sores?
No treatment is usually necessary and the bisters heal up on their own anyway n a couple of weeks However, applying Aciclovir cream (available OTC) 3-4 times a day will help clear the blisters quicker.
Am I infective?
You will be infective while you have the blisters (1-2 weeks). However once the scabs form, you are not usually infective.
The condition however is harmless and has no long term implications.
Further reading:
http://www.dermnetnz.org/viral/herpes-simplex.html
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