Cold Sores
 Often referred to as fever blisters, cold sores are caused by Herpes simplex virus type 1. There is also a Herpes simplex virus 2 that causes genital herpes. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, either virus can cause sores on the face or genitals. Once an individual has contracted the virus, he or she has it for life, as there is no cure for the virus. The virus can lay dormant for months or longer.
Cold sores can be very painful and unattractive (see pictures of cold sores). Symptoms usually include small blisters that are red and filled with fluid. Patients may also experience pain and tingling in the infected area. Overall, a cold sore should last about 10 days. While there is no cure for cold sores, you can take some preventative measures to hopefully prevent them from occurring: - Do not share items such as towels, utensils and lip balm with someone who has an outbreak.
- Avoid kissing an individual if he or she has open or healing blisters.
- Use sun block.
- Avoid stressful situations that may trigger blister outbreaks.
The Mayo Clinic recommends individuals seek cold sore treatment with a doctor if they experience any of the following: - The cold sores fail to heal within a week or two.
- The symptoms of the sores are severe.
- You experience eye irritation.
- You suffer from cold sores on a regular basis.
- You have a health condition that has compromised your immune system.
To learn more about cold sore treatment and prevention, click on the ‘Request a Consult’ button to connect with a KoolDoc who can provide you with information and treatment options specific to your condition.
KoolDocs.com provides online doctor consultations an online doctor prescription as well as a doctors excuse for work or school. For an online doctor, call KoolDocs.com today at 1-800-378-0086.
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