The Basics of Cold Sores

Often times, there are many, or at least several terms to describe the same condition or similar conditions with a common origin. This can be confusing. Hopefully, this article will shed some light on the basics of cold sores.

What are the differences among oral herpes, fever blisters and cold sores? Well, actually they are all the same. While oral herpes isn’t as widely a used term as the other two monikers, the three terms are all different names for the outbreaks caused by the herpes simplex 1 virus and, in fewer cases, the herpes simplex 2 virus.

When a person is infected with the herpes simplex virus, type 1, he or she often develops this condition on or around the mouth. There are cases in which herpes simplex 2, the cause of most genital herpes can also cause this condition. However, these instances are significantly lower.

A cold sore can and often does break open, releasing a clear fluid. The area around it may become tender and painful to the touch. The area may also be red in color and swollen. Eventually, the sores will develop scabs. It can take anywhere from a couple days to in excess of two weeks for these eruptions to heal. The affected area should not be touched because herpes simplex virus 1 can be spread through contact. Fluids released from sores provide a perfect source for transmitting the virus for one person to another, so regardless of the name you use, take care not to spread these unsightly protrusions.

That is just a snippet of information on the basics of cold sores. If you wish, you can find a plethora of information online or in the library regarding treatment, causes and precautionary measures to avoid transmission; and pretty much anything else you want to know about the subject.