What are the Cold Sores?
About 90% of the adult population
worldwide test positive for the virus that causes cold sores. Cold sores, also
called fever blisters, are small fluid filled blisters that can develop on the
lips or around the mouth. The blisters form as clusters and when they break, a
crust develops over the sore.
What are causes of cold sores?
Cold sores are caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) which is very contagious and can be easily passed from one person to another person by close and direct contact. The virus can be transmitted to other, even if you don’t exhibit any of the symptoms. Cold sores usually appear when people are ‘run down’ – for instance by a weakened immune system or are ill, for example with a cold or flu or hormonal changes such as menstruation.
What are the symptoms of cold sores?
Cold sores develop through several stages. In the early stages, a tingling, itching or burning sensation develops on the lips that usually last for a day or two. This develops into small fluid filled blisters at the edge of the lips and the skin of the face. Finally, smaller blisters may merge together and burst leaving an open sore that will ooze some fluid and will usually crust over. These symptoms take several days or a few weeks to heal completely, depending if this was a first outbreak or a recurrent event. Recurring outbreaks usually occur at the same spot and tend to be less severe than the first outbreak.
Additional less frequent symptoms may include: fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, headaches or muscle ache. Children may also develop cold sores in their mouth, that can be mistaken for canker sores.
How can I treat the cold sores?
Cold sores usually clear up by themselves without any treatment within 7 to 10 days.
However, you can get antiviral creams such as acyclovir over the counter. These can help ease the pain and help the sores heal more quickly. Some drugs are also available as pills that may work better than topical creams.
The sooner you start treatment, the faster it will heal and less likely for the lesion to get bigger.
If I have a cold sore should I see my doctor/dentist?
It is advisable to delay routine visits until lesion is crusted over when it is not infectious or painful. However, if dental emergency visit is required then contact your dentist for further advice.
If your cold sores does not clear up within two weeks, or if you have a health condition that has weakened your immune system – see your doctor/dentist for a prescription of antiviral medication. Additionally, if the symptoms get severe, or irritation is experienced in the eyes or you get cold sores frequently, consult your doctor.
What complications of cold sores can occur?
In rare cases, cold sores can cause complications such as:
• Dehydration – if consuming drinks becomes too painful.
• The herpes simplex virus can spread to other parts of your body, known as a secondary infection. Parts of the body that can be affected include the finger tips, eyes, large areas of skin or other organs like the brain or spinal cord.
How can I prevent infection?
Cold sores are the most contagious when they burst, but still remain contagious until they are completely healed and disappeared. It’s important to note that the virus is still transmissible even though no overt symptoms may be present.
It is important to avoid close contact with people with weakened immune systems because they are more vulnerable to infections.. Avoid sharing personal items such as towels and lip balm and wash your hands thoroughly before touching other people, especially children.
West Wickham Dental Practice provides general and preventive dental services that involves thorough examination, diagnosis and suitable treatment of conditions affecting both the hard teeth/bone structures as well as the soft tissue parts of the mouth and surrounding anatomy for ulcers of the mouth and signs of oral cancers. So even if you feel you may not have enough teeth to warrant a visit to the dentist for a routine check-up, do not forget that the rest of the mouth still deserves a good check. Visit us for a personalised examination and advice regarding your oral care.
By,
Mrs Monika Breive and Dr Azim
Mohamedali
References:
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