Cold sores and fever blisters are both the same thing, and are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). Also known as oral herpes, these irritating, unsightly, and sometimes painful lesions around the mouth are suffered by approximately 80% of the human population. Though not normally dangerous, they can present a high danger when spread to the eyes, or when people with a suppressed immune system have contracted the virus.
Because of their very common nature, society is not much taken aback by cold sores, unlike other nefarious viruses that may cause symptoms that are easily seen. Being highly contagious, one has to take particular notice not to spread them to other mucous membranes or transmit the virus through a skin tear, being very cautious around others and when they touch themselves.
From contraction of the virus to the first physical manifestations, a period of one or two weeks may pass. The first outbreak can cause a sore throat, making it hard to swallow, fever, swollen glands, and also blisters in and around the mouth, nose and throat; the first outbreak is usually worse than any other.
Cold sores can be triggered by a multitude of things. Physical and emotional stress can bring on an outbreak, as well as illness, fever, or some injury to the lips such as chapping or sunburn. An upset in hormone balances can also trigger an outbreak, such as in cases of menstruation or pregnancy. Anyone that may have a low immune system or an immune deficiency that displays symptoms should immediately see their physician.
Much of the discomfort associated with cold sores, such as redness, tingling, itching and pain can be eased by used medications available by prescription or off of the store shelves, and these may well cut the outbreak short. Physician may prescribe oral prescriptions or topical creams and ointments in the case of continual, repetitive outbreaks.
Cold sores are merely treatable, not curable, as there is no known cure for the herpes simplex virus. Use constant precautions and wash your hands often to prevent the spread of oral herpes to others around you and to other parts of your body.
Find out more about how to eliminate cold sores quickly at his website about cold sore treatments.