A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W

COLD SORES

What are Cold Sores ?

Cold sores are very common. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus. There are two types of this virus. HSV1 (herpes simplex virus, type 1) usually affects the lips, mouth, eyes and skin. The other type, HSV2 (herpes simplex virus, type 2), affects the genital area. The first attack of this infection usually occurs mainly in young children under 5 years of age. The virus passes from person to person mainly by direct contact with infected oral secretions. In most cases the symptoms are so mild that they come and go without being noticed. Four to five days after being infected, the child may have a high fever, sore mouth and enlarged neck glands. Eating becomes very difficult because of the mouth ulcers.

The illness may last for 2 weeks and recovery is usually complete. Following the first attack, the virus remains hidden in nerves for the rest of the person's life. From time to time the virus becomes active again causing cold sores on the lips and around the mouth and nose. These sores or blisters usually come back at the same place. The sore starts as an itchy, burning and painful area which develops into a blister. It then develops into an ulcer which heals by forming a scab. These cold sores may occur again at intervals ranging between a few days to years, throughout the person's life. In most patients the disease is just a nuisance. In patients with poor defences against infection the illness may be severe.

How do Cold Sores occur ?

The virus multiplies in the lining of the mouth. The area becomes inflamed and a fluid-containing blister is formed which later ulcerates.

Why do Cold Sores occur ?

Possible reasons for the cold sore returning include injury whilst shaving, strong sunlight, heat and emotional stress.

Treatment Involved for Cold Sores

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. In most cases no specific treatment is needed. Paracetamol may help with the pain. Keeping the sores clean may prevent bacterial infection. An antiviral drug, acyclovir usually given as a cream can shorten the length of time the cold sore lasts. It is mainly of value if used early in the attack. It is sometimes prescribed as a course of tablets. The cream is available from chemists without a prescription.

During Treatment of Cold Sores

The first attack which occurs in children gets better in 10 to 15 days. In future attacks, spread may occur from sores in the mouth to the genital area or the eyes. Preventing small children from putting their hands in their mouths is a difficult job! Frequent handwashing may help. Cold sores on the lips or around the mouth heal in 10 days.

After Treatment of Cold Sores

Sores may become additionally infected with bacteria. This may cause the ulcer to spread and weep. If this occurs, your doctor will need to give you further treatment with antibiotics. There have been some reports that ultraviolet sun screens can reduce the recurrence of cold sores.

If Cold Sores are Left Untreated

In young children, the ulcers in the mouth and on the lips heal usually in about 2 weeks without leaving a scar. In adults, cold sores heal by crusting within 10 days on average.

Effects on Family of Cold Sores

Sometimes a person with a cold sore may infect others by kissing, for example. As a precaution, contact with a sore or discharge from a sore should be avoided.