Common Influenza

How Do Cold Sores Happen?

Small reddish lesions known as cold sores are uncomfortable and blister. They are typically found inside the mouth or on the lip's outer border.

Cold ulcers can develop singly or in small clusters. They contain fluid, but before they disappear, they crust over and create a scab. They last a week or two and generally don't need any special treatment.

Despite their name, cold ulcers do not require a cold to develop. Although they are sometimes referred to as fever blisters, having one does not require having a temperature.

Why do cold sores develop?

Herpes is an infection that causes cold sores (say: HUR-peez). One of the most widespread viral infections in the globe is herpes. Herpes simplex is the official name of the virus that produces cold sores.

Herpes simplex virus one (also known as HSV-1 for short) and herpes simplex virus two are the two kinds of herpes simplex infection (called HSV-2 for short). Although both can result in cold sores around the lips, HSV-1 is the primary culprit.

Since HSV-1 is so widespread, most Americans contract it, even though many never experience any signs. It is understandable why there are so many cold sores since HSV-1 can be spread through kissing, sharing drinking glasses or tools, or touching someone who has a cold sore.

Children who contract HSV-1 may occasionally develop cold sores for the remainder of their lives. This is due to the fact that even after the lesions themselves heal and disappear, the virus remains dormant in the body, ready to erupt at a later date and cause new sores. A cold sore frequently returns in the same spot where it first appeared.

How Can I Avoid Developing Cold Sores?

HSV-1 is not a major issue. However, it's wise to make every effort to keep cold ulcers at a minimum. When a person you know develops a cold sore:

Never smooch either of them.
Don't use the same knife, fork, or spoon or sip from the same glass.
Never exchange napkins, washcloths, or towels.

It can be difficult to predict what might cause cold sores to recur if you've previously experienced them. Some children may experience the recurrence of cold sores as a result of excessive tension, exposure to the sun, or illness. Every child should practice good nutrition, adequate rest, and stress management techniques, but this is particularly true of children who are prone to cold sores.

For kids who are prone to cold sores, applying sunscreen to the face and lip area before going outside in the sun may help avoid the recurrence of the condition.

How Should I Treat a Cold Sore?

The majority of children's sores heal on their own without any extra medical care. Try holding some ice covered in cloth or a cool washcloth on the sore if you develop a cold sore. Consuming a sorbet might also be beneficial.

A doctor may occasionally recommend a special medication that fights the herpes simplex virus if a child's cold sores are making them sick. If their sores are unpleasant, some kids may take acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently while you wait for the cold sore to heal, and avoid picking at it. You'll only obstruct your body's normal mending procedure. The virus can easily spread to other areas of your body, such as your fingers or eyes, if you pick at a cold sore. Even worse, you run the risk of infecting others. Nobody will be grateful that you gave them a cold sore!