Cold sores are blister-like sores, which usually appear in the corners of the mouth and around the lips. Cold sores are highly contagious and can spread quickly from person to person; cold sores are very common and most people will have at least one in their lifetime. In certain cases, cold sores can be removed at some dental surgeries. There are particular practices that offer emergency dental treatment and these can be of use to those with busy schedules and last minute problems.
What causes cold sores?
Cold sores are caused by a virus, known as the Herpes Simplex virus. Most cases are caused by the Simplex type 1 strain but in rare cases, the Simplex type 2 strain of the virus may be the cause. The Herpes virus can be passed quickly through close physical contact. Once you have been exposed to the virus, it will lie dormant and will usually flare up now and again, although some people get one cold sore and then never have another one.
Cold sores and girls
Different triggers can contribute to flare ups in different people. Some examples of triggers include tiredness, stress, an injury which affects the mouth and sun exposure. Some women also find that they get cold sores when they have their period, although this is not always the case.
In most cases, the virus is passed to a person during their childhood. This is usually a result of a person with the virus kissing the child; the child will then have the virus for the rest of their lives, but they may never have another cold sore. Cold sores are easily passed onto others, so if somebody close to you, such as your boyfriend or family members, have a cold sore try to avoid kissing them or sharing drinks or cutlery with them until the sore has healed.
Signs to look out for
Some people may have the Herpes virus without displaying any symptoms. However, many people will experience symptoms and common signs to look out for include tingling around the mouth, itching and irritation around the mouth and a burning sensation around the lips. Usually, these are followed by the development of the sore, which often looks red, sore and dry.
In children, the primary infection (the first time they are infected with the virus) can produce quite serious symptoms, including swollen and sore gums, swollen throat, inflamed glands, fever, dehydration, headaches and nausea.
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