Definition:
Cold sores are also called fever blister and herpes simplex – oral. It is an illness caused by the herpes simplex virus. Cold sores are somewhat different from canker sores. Canker sores are condition in which people sometimes relate with cold sores. You cannot prevent nor cure cold sores even though it is common. You can take procedures to lessen their frequency and to limit the duration of an occurrence.
Diagnosis:
Analyzing may also show enlargement of lymph nodes in the neck or groin. Viral culture or Tzanck test of the skin scratch may expose the herpes simplex virus.
Treatment:
Antiviral treatments given by mouth may diminish the course of the symptoms and decrease pain. Clean blisters tenderly with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus to other areas of skin.
Symptoms and Signs:
Cold sore symptoms include small, painful, fluid-filled blisters on a raised, red area of your skin, typically around the mouth, usual duration of seven to 10 days, and pain or tingling, called the prodrome, often precedes the blisters by one to two days.
Causes:
One cause of the cold sore is the certain strains of the herpes virus. Type 1 of the herpes simplex virus commonly causes cold sores.
