Darrick Robles Cold sores (or “labial herpes”) is a viral infection of the skin and mucous membranes that often appears in the mouth as small, clear, fluid-filled blisters. In most cases, the infection is caused by the herpes simplex virus (type 1). However, the viruses can also be transmitted to the genital area and trigger “genital herpes”. In Germany, around 90% of people are infected with the virus. But they show no symptoms.
Definition
The virus is usually transmitted during childhood by friends or affected family members. In the majority of cases, the infection runs its course without symptoms and is therefore not noticed by those affected. After the initial infection, the viruses remain inactive in the nervous system and can be reactivated by various trigger factors.
Cold sore symptoms
With initial infection (that is, the person gets the virus for the first time), the following symptoms may occur:
- Painful blisters in the mouth, throat or nose area
- Sore throat
- Swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck area
- Fever
- skin rash
- itching
The symptoms usually subside within about 2 weeks. After the initial infection, the viruses can be activated again and cause mouth blisters.
Causes of cold sores
The herpes viruses can be transmitted through close contact with an infected person (e.g. kissing, having sex) or using their objects (e.g. razors, towels, cutlery).
After infection, the viruses remain in the body for life and can lead to the typical symptoms again due to certain trigger factors (e.g. sun exposure, stress, cold, pregnancy).
duration of the complaints
The symptoms of an initial infection can last for about 2 weeks. In the case of relapses, the symptoms usually heal within a short time (7-10 days).
Cold sores in pregnancy
Recurrent cold sores during pregnancy are common and usually benign. If signs of cold sores appear for the first time or if the partner has recurring herpes infections, further laboratory tests should be carried out to determine the virus type and the immune status. This may require antiviral therapy or, in rare cases, a caesarean section to reduce the risk of contamination in the newborn.
How can a doctor diagnose cold sores?
Cold sores is a visual diagnosis. This means that the doctor can use the clinical picture to diagnose “herpes labialis”. A laboratory test is rarely required.
When do I have to go to the doctor?
You should contact a doctor if:
- The mouth blisters do not go away within 10 days
- Increased attacks of cold sores occur
- There are also eye problems
- Long-lasting and severe symptoms are present
What helps with cold sores?
In most cases, the disease resolves on its own and requires no treatment. Over-the-counter virus-inhibiting or disinfecting creams can be used to alleviate the symptoms and speed up the healing process. Antiviral tablets can be administered, inter alia, in the case of an initial infection or an extensive infestation. A local application of heat with a thermal pen can also stop or weaken the outbreak if applied promptly at the beginning of the symptoms.
This is how Med-Healths can help with cold sores
Do you have cold sores? Can this endanger other people? What treatment and prevention measures can you take? Are there certain risk factors that can promote a cold sore disease? You can discuss these and other questions with a doctor via our video consultation. Of course you can also upload a photo of the skin lesions via our app to describe your symptoms as best as possible.
If necessary, the doctor can issue you with a prescription or referral to a dermatologist.
