A cold sore is a common occurence, but knowledge about it is not as widespread. These facts will help you dispel the rumors about its origin and treatment.Origin of Cold Sores A cold sore, also known as a fever blister, is caused by a virus called herpes simplex type 1 (HSV1), which is easily passed from person to person. It can be transmitted through many types of contact, including a kiss, sharing eating utensils, or close skin contact. There are at least eight viruses in the herpes virus family. When people refer to "herpes", they usually mean genital herpes, which is an entirely different disease. A Permanent Condition Unfortunately, once you have the cold sore virus, it stays in your body forever. The HSV1 outbreaks which are the cause of cold sores can now be treated with a prescription antiviral medicine called Denavir® (penciclovir cream). Common Triggers A cold sore outbreak may be triggered by any one of many everyday situations, including stress, a common cold or flu, fatigue, exposure to sunlight, excessive heat or cold, injury to your mouth, or, for some women, menstruation or pregnancy. Cold Sore or Canker Sore? A cold sore is caused by a virus which appears on the outside of your mouth – on your face or around the lips. Unlike a canker sore, a cold sore can be treated with a prescription antiviral medicine. Canker sores, on the other hand, are ulcers that are most likely of unknown cause. They appear on the inside of your mouth, on the mucous membranes of your cheek or lips or under your tongue. They are usually oval with a gray center and a red border. If you are unsure, please check with your physician or dentist. A Common Problem Up to 80% of the population is infected with the HSV1 virus. However, only 20% to 45% of these people experience cold sores outbreaks. The rest are called "dormant carriers." Women tend to be affected more frequently than men (65% of sufferers are women). People can be infected with HSV1 virus before the age of ten and as infants. * Information on file at Novartis. |
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