Often referred to as fever blisters, cold sores are small blisters
that normally form around the mouth and near the lips. The surrounding skin
becomes red, swollen, and sore making it very uncomfortable to even speak. If
left untreated, cold sores can ultimately break open and start to leak fluid.
Eventually they scab over and heal themselves after a couple weeks.
So what causes these unsightly sores? The sore is caused by the
herpes simplex virus (HSV). It can enter the body through a break in the skin
inside or around your mouth. Among the top contributors are stress and
excessive sunlight, however, sharing drinking cups, razors, or kissing can also
spread the virus.
Treatment options vary from topical to oral medications, but the
key to optimal therapy is to initiate treatment at the very first sign of
symptoms. In the initial stage of getting a cold sore minor burning, stinging,
or itching may occur. If you think you may be witnessing the initial stages of
a cold sore or might already have one and can’t seem to find relief, call today
to schedule appointment with Dr. Lily.
#mcleanderm #askdrlily #coldsores #HSV
