Although there is no cure for the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2) that causes them, cold sore breakouts can be managed and avoided. Cold sores, sometimes called fever blisters, appear around the lips and mouth and are often associated with red, swollen, and irritated skin around the breakout areas.
About Cold Sores:
The HSV-1 virus is transmitted by direct contact with infected skin or saliva. Primary infection may occur during childhood and cause a fever, sore gums, sore throat, and swollen or tender glands in the neck. After that, the virus remains dormant in nerve roots near the infected skin. In some people, the virus rarely, if ever, reactivates. But in others, recurrences called secondary herpes episodes might occur, producing cold sores. While medical experts have not determined the exact cause for reactivation, a variety of stimuli, such as stress, dental treatment, illness, trauma to the lips, or sun exposure, can precipitate an outbreak.
Cold Sore Symptoms
- Pain around the mouth
- Fever and sore throat
- Swollen neck glands (lymph nodes)
What causes cold sores?
- Stress
- Chapped Lips
- Moderate-to-severe sunlight exposure
- Fatigue
- Illness
Unfortunately, no medication eliminates the dormant HSV-1 infection causing your cold sore, but your Frisco dentist can prescribe medication that helps prevent an outbreak and relieve symptoms.
For advice and treatment of cold sores, call Prime Time Dentistry in Frisco at 945-207-7463.