Cold sores are small blisters that develop on the lips or around the mouth, caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). They usually clear up on their own within 7 to 10 days. Here’s a detailed overview of symptoms, causes, treatment options, and ways to prevent their spread:
Symptoms of Cold Sores
- Primary Infection Symptoms: Often, there are no noticeable symptoms when initially infected with HSV. However, when symptoms do appear, they can be more severe, especially in children.
- In Children:
- Swollen and irritated gums, with small, painful sores in and around the mouth (herpes simplex gingivostomatitis)
- Sore throat and swollen glands
- Increased saliva production
- High temperature (fever) over 38°C (100.4°F)
- Dehydration
- Nausea and headaches
- Gingivostomatitis typically affects young children and can last from 7-14 days, with sores taking up to 3 weeks to heal. This condition usually does not reappear after the primary infection.
- In Adults: Primary infection is rare, but symptoms may mirror those of children and include sore throat, swollen glands, bad breath (halitosis), and painful sores or ulcers.
Recurrent Infections
Following the initial infection, HSV may remain dormant in the body and be periodically reactivated, resulting in cold sores. Symptoms typically reduce to the cold sores themselves.
When to Get Medical Advice
- See a Pharmacist: They can provide guidance and treatment for cold sores.
- See Your GP if:
- A cold sore does not start to heal within 10 days.
- The sore is unusually large or painful.
- There are sores accompanied by swollen, painful gums.
- You or your child have weakened immune systems due to treatments or conditions like chemotherapy, diabetes, or HIV.
Treatment for Cold Sores
Home Care
- Do:
- Eat cool, soft foods to reduce discomfort.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying any cream.
- Avoid known cold sore triggers.
- Use a sunblock lip balm (SPF 15 or above) in sunlight.
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen to ease pain and swelling.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Don’t:
- Kiss anyone until the sore completely heals.
- Have oral sex until the sore heals.
- Touch the sore unnecessarily (other than to apply cream).
- Rub cream into the cold sore; instead, gently dab it on.
- Eat acidic or salty foods that may worsen discomfort.
Pharmacy Treatments
- Antiviral creams (e.g., aciclovir) can speed healing and ease irritation.
- Cold sore patches protect the skin.
- Electronic light or laser devices can help but lack extensive research support.
GP Treatments
- If cold sores are large, painful, and persistent, antiviral tablets may be prescribed.
- Newborns, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems may need specialized care.
Causes of Cold Sores
- Primary Cause: Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), often contracted during childhood from contact with an infected person.
- Triggers for Outbreaks:
- Respiratory tract infections or fevers.
- Psychological stress or fatigue.
- Menstruation.
- Sunlight exposure.
Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2)
- Less commonly, HSV-2 (which causes genital herpes) can cause oral sores, typically contracted through oral-genital contact.
Preventing Infection Spread
- Cold sores are most contagious when they burst but remain contagious until fully healed.
- Practice good hygiene:
- Avoid close contact until the sore heals.
- Wash hands with soap and water frequently.
- Disinfect surfaces and avoid sharing towels.
Complications of Cold Sores
- Dehydration: Young children are at particular risk if drinking fluids becomes painful.
- Skin Infections: The virus may spread to other areas, such as broken skin or eczema-affected areas.
- Herpetic Whitlow: Painful sores on the fingers.
- Herpetic Keratoconjunctivitis: Eye swelling, irritation, and sores on eyelids.
With proper care and preventive measures, cold sores can be managed effectively, reducing discomfort and limiting the spread of infection.
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