The Herpes Simplex Virus - The Culprit Behind Cold Sores

Do you suffer from cold sores? If so, you're certainly not alone. An estimated 100 million Americans have acquired the herpes simplex virus  (HSV-1) which causes cold sores. These mouth sores can be a real pain to say the least. A cold sore is a small reddish or purple blister that is the end result of the herpes virus flaring up in your body.

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There are two types of Herpes Simplex Virus: HSV-1 and HSV-2.

HSV-2 is the strain of the virus that causes genital herpes. Approximately 22% of American adults have HSV-2, with two thirds of them not even realizing it. It is spread from those with an active outbreak having unprotected sex, although even being protected offers no guarantee that the virus will not be spread.

HSV-1 is the form of herpes that causes mouth sores. Because the virus is highly contagious, you must avoid skin-to-skin contact with an open cold sore in order to avoid getting the virus.

Also, any kind of herpes virus is dangerous to newborns. It can easily be spread to the baby in the first weeks of life if he or she is kissed by someone with an active cold sore (oral herpes).

Early treatment during the initial tingling or burning stage may stop the blister from forming, or help the cold sore heal faster once it has formed. They will generally clear up without treatment in seven to 10 days. Most people don't need treatment, since they go away on their own, but some over the counter medications can offer some relief. The key with these medicines is to begin treatment before the blister appears. If you wait until after it has already formed or broken open, it will be too late.

Keep in mind that herpes is extremely contagious until it has completely healed and the affected skin has returned to normal. But even then there is still the possibility of spreading the virus for some time even after the skin has healed. If for any reason you don't see complete healing within 2 weeks, or it gets worse, talk to your doctor.

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