Here are some interesting facts about cold sores:
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Prevalence: Cold sores are incredibly common. It is estimated that approximately 90% of adults worldwide carry the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which is the main cause of cold sores.
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Highly contagious: Cold sores are highly contagious, particularly when the blisters are present. The virus can be easily transmitted through direct contact, such as kissing, sharing utensils or personal items, or engaging in oral sex.
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Dormant virus: After the initial infection, the herpes simplex virus remains in the body for life. It becomes dormant in nerve cells and can reactivate periodically, resulting in cold sore outbreaks.
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Triggers: Various factors can trigger cold sore outbreaks. Common triggers include stress, exposure to sunlight or UV rays, hormonal changes, illness or fever, fatigue, and weakened immune system.
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Early symptoms: Cold sores typically go through stages. The first stage is called the prodrome, during which you may experience tingling, itching, or a burning sensation on or around the lips before the appearance of blisters.
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Contagious even without visible sores: Cold sores can be contagious even when there are no visible blisters or sores. This is known as viral shedding. During viral shedding, the virus can still be transmitted to others through close contact.
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Risk to newborns: Newborn babies are particularly vulnerable to the herpes virus. If a mother has an active cold sore or a recent history of cold sores, there is a risk of transmitting the virus to the baby during childbirth, which can lead to severe illness.
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No cure: While there is no cure for the herpes simplex virus, antiviral creams such as Medusa lip balm and cold sore remedy can help reduce the duration and severity of cold sore outbreaks.These creams work by suppressing the replication of the virus.
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Emotional impact: Cold sores can have a significant impact on a person's emotional well-being. The visible sores can cause embarrassment, self-consciousness, and social stigma, leading to feelings of anxiety and decreased self-esteem.
It's important to note that the information provided here is for educational purposes, and if you have any concerns or questions about cold sores, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist for accurate diagnosis, treatment options, and personalised advice.
