What are the five stages of cold sores. How long do cold sores typically last. What treatments are available for cold sores. How can you prevent cold sores from developing. What triggers can cause cold sores to appear.

Understanding Cold Sores: Causes and Transmission

Cold sores, also known as herpes labialis, are a common viral infection caused by the nongenital herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). These painful blisters typically appear on or around the lips, though they can also develop inside the mouth. The virus is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with an infected person’s skin or bodily fluids.

HSV-1 transmission often occurs during childhood through nonsexual contact. However, adults can also contract the infection through sexual activity. Once the virus enters the body, it remains dormant in skin cells and neurons beneath the skin’s surface until a trigger stimulates its reactivation.

Common Triggers for Cold Sore Outbreaks

• Stress
• Fever
• Sun exposure
• Extreme temperatures
• Ultraviolet radiation
• Compromised immune system
• Physical injury to the affected area

Understanding these triggers can help individuals take preventive measures to reduce the frequency of cold sore outbreaks.

The Five Stages of Cold Sore Development

Cold sores typically progress through five distinct stages, with the entire process lasting between 9 and 12 days. In some cases, the duration can extend up to 2 to 6 weeks. Let’s explore each stage in detail:

Stage 1: Prodrome (Day 1-2)

The first stage of a cold sore is characterized by a tingling, itching, or burning sensation beneath the skin around the mouth or base of the nose. This prodrome stage is crucial for early intervention, as starting treatment at this point can potentially prevent the cold sore from appearing or significantly reduce its severity.

Additional symptoms during the prodrome stage may include:

• Malaise
• Fever
• Tender or swollen lymph nodes

Is it possible to prevent a cold sore from developing at this stage? Yes, starting treatment with antiviral medications as soon as these initial symptoms appear can potentially block the cold sore from forming or reduce its duration and severity.

Stage 2: Blister Formation (Day 2-3)

If left untreated, a fluid-filled blister will likely develop within 1 to 2 days after the initial symptoms. This marks the beginning of the visible manifestation of the cold sore.

Stage 3: Ulcer or Weeping Stage (Day 4)

Around the fourth day, the blister opens up and releases its fluid. This stage, known as the ulcer or weeping stage, is when the cold sore becomes most contagious. The open sore is typically painful and can easily spread the virus to others through direct contact with the fluid.

Stage 4: Crusting (Day 5-8)

Between days 5 and 8, the cold sore begins to dry up, forming a yellow or brown crust. This crust will eventually flake off, but it’s essential to take care during this stage as the scab can crack or break, potentially prolonging the healing process.

Stage 5: Healing (Day 9-12)

The final stage of a cold sore is the healing stage. During this phase, several scabs may form and flake off, with each new scab being smaller than the previous one. The process continues until the wound heals completely, usually without leaving a scar.

Effective Treatments for Cold Sores

Early intervention is key to managing cold sores effectively. Doctors recommend starting treatment as soon as the initial tingling sensation begins, ideally before the cold sore appears. Treatment options for cold sores include both oral and topical medications, and in some cases, a combination of both may be prescribed.

Oral Medications for Cold Sores

1. Acyclovir (Zovirax)
2. Famciclovir (Famvir)
3. Valacyclovir (Valtrex)

Topical Treatments for Cold Sores

1. Acyclovir (Zovirax) cream
2. Docosanol (Abreva)
3. Penciclovir (Denavir) cream

How effective are these treatments in reducing cold sore duration? A study published in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy found that high doses and short courses of valacyclovir may reduce the duration of a cold sore by approximately one day. While this may seem modest, early treatment can significantly alleviate symptoms and potentially prevent the cold sore from fully developing.

Preventing Cold Sore Transmission

Cold sores are highly contagious, particularly during the ulcer or weeping stage. Understanding how the virus spreads is crucial for preventing transmission to others and avoiding reinfection.

When Are Cold Sores Most Contagious?

Cold sores become contagious when they enter the ulcer or weeping stage, typically around the fourth day of development. During this time, the fluid from the open blister contains active virus particles that can easily spread to others.

How Does Cold Sore Transmission Occur?

Transmission of the HSV-1 virus can occur through:

• Direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person’s cold sore
• Kissing
• Sharing utensils, drinkware, or cosmetics
• Using the same towels or other personal items

How long does it take for symptoms to appear after exposure? People who come into contact with the fluid from an infected person’s cold sore may develop symptoms between 2 to 20 days after exposure.

Managing Chronic Cold Sores

Some individuals experience recurring cold sores, which can be both frustrating and uncomfortable. For these cases, doctors may recommend preventive treatments to reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks.

Preventive Medications for Chronic Cold Sores

According to the American Family Physician (AAP), daily preventive treatments may include:

• Acyclovir: 400 milligrams (mg), twice daily
• Valacyclovir: 500 mg, once daily

These medications can help suppress the virus and reduce the likelihood of outbreaks. However, it’s important to note that preventive treatments need to be taken regularly to maintain their effectiveness.

Lifestyle Modifications for Cold Sore Prevention

In addition to medication, doctors and dentists recommend several lifestyle modifications to help prevent cold sore outbreaks:

• Consuming foods high in lysine, such as red meats, fish, and dairy products
• Applying sunscreen to the face and lips before sun exposure
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques and regular exercise
• Maintaining a strong immune system through a balanced diet and adequate sleep
• Avoiding known triggers, such as extreme temperature changes or excessive sun exposure

Cold Sores and Immune System Health

The relationship between cold sores and the immune system is complex and multifaceted. A strong immune system plays a crucial role in keeping the herpes simplex virus dormant and preventing outbreaks.

The Role of the Immune System in Cold Sore Prevention

When the immune system is functioning optimally, it can effectively suppress the HSV-1 virus, reducing the frequency and severity of cold sore outbreaks. Conversely, a weakened immune system may struggle to keep the virus in check, leading to more frequent or severe episodes.

What factors can compromise immune system function and increase the risk of cold sores? Several factors can weaken the immune system and potentially trigger cold sore outbreaks:

• Chronic stress
• Lack of sleep
• Poor nutrition
• Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs or corticosteroids
• Underlying health conditions, such as HIV/AIDS or autoimmune disorders

Boosting Immune Function to Prevent Cold Sores

To support immune system health and reduce the risk of cold sore outbreaks, consider implementing the following strategies:

1. Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
2. Get regular exercise to promote overall health and reduce stress
3. Prioritize sleep, aiming for 7-9 hours per night
4. Practice stress-reduction techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises
5. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
6. Consider taking immune-boosting supplements, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc (consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements)

Cold Sores and Psychological Impact

While cold sores are primarily a physical condition, they can also have significant psychological effects on those who experience them. The visible nature of cold sores, combined with their recurrent nature, can lead to emotional distress and social anxiety for many individuals.

Emotional Challenges Associated with Cold Sores

People with recurrent cold sores may experience a range of emotional challenges, including:

• Embarrassment or self-consciousness about their appearance
• Anxiety about potential outbreaks, especially before important events
• Fear of transmitting the virus to others, particularly loved ones
• Frustration with the recurring nature of the condition
• Feelings of isolation or stigma associated with having a viral infection

Coping Strategies for the Psychological Impact of Cold Sores

How can individuals manage the emotional aspects of living with recurrent cold sores? Here are some strategies that may help:

1. Educate yourself and others about cold sores to reduce stigma and misunderstanding
2. Practice self-compassion and remember that cold sores are a common condition affecting millions of people
3. Develop a support network of friends, family, or support groups who understand your experiences
4. Focus on overall health and well-being to reduce stress and boost immunity
5. Consider speaking with a mental health professional if cold sores are causing significant emotional distress
6. Use makeup or cold sore patches to cover visible outbreaks if it helps boost confidence

By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of cold sores, individuals can better manage the condition and maintain a positive quality of life.

Emerging Research and Future Treatments for Cold Sores

As our understanding of the herpes simplex virus and its mechanisms continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new avenues for treating and preventing cold sores. These advancements offer hope for more effective management of the condition in the future.

Promising Areas of Research

Several areas of research show potential for improving cold sore treatment and prevention:

• Gene editing techniques to target and disable the HSV-1 virus
• Development of new antiviral medications with improved efficacy and fewer side effects
• Exploration of natural compounds with antiviral properties
• Advancements in vaccine development to prevent HSV-1 infection
• Investigation of the role of the microbiome in cold sore susceptibility and prevention

Potential Future Treatments

What new treatments might be available for cold sores in the coming years? While it’s difficult to predict with certainty, some promising avenues include:

1. CRISPR gene editing technology to target and eliminate the virus from infected cells
2. Immunotherapy approaches to boost the body’s natural defenses against HSV-1
3. Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems for more effective topical treatments
4. Personalized medicine approaches that tailor treatments to an individual’s genetic makeup and immune response
5. Development of therapeutic vaccines to suppress virus reactivation in people already infected with HSV-1

As research progresses, it’s important for individuals affected by cold sores to stay informed about new developments and discuss emerging treatment options with their healthcare providers.

In conclusion, while cold sores can be a challenging and recurring condition, understanding the stages of development, available treatments, and preventive measures can help individuals manage outbreaks more effectively. By combining medical interventions with lifestyle modifications and emotional support, those affected by cold sores can minimize the impact of the condition on their daily lives. As research continues to advance, there is hope for even more effective treatments and prevention strategies in the future.

Cold sore stages: Pictures, duration, and treatment

There are five stages of cold sores. These lead from the initial tingling in the area to the healing stage.

Cold sores, also known as herpes labialis, are caused by nongenital herpes simplex virus type 1. People can develop a cold sore on their lips or in their mouth.

Transmission of the nongenital herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) occurs during childhood through nonsexual contact, but adults can contract the infection through sexual activity. HSV-1 hibernates inside skin cells and neurons under the skin until a trigger stimulates it.

Before the cold sore appears, people may feel a burning, stinging, or itching sensation on their lips. For best results, doctors recommend starting treatment as soon as the tingling begins, before the cold sore appears.

In this article, we discuss the stages of a cold sore and what to do if a cold sore develops. We also explore how doctors treat the infection and how people can avoid getting a cold sore.

A cold sore develops in five stages and will typically last between 9 and 12 days.

Stage 1

Initially, people will feel a tingling, itching, or burning sensation underneath the skin around the mouth or base of the nose. Doctors call this the prodrome stage.

Other symptoms that may occur during this stage include:

• malaise
• fever
• tender or swollen lymph nodes

At this first stage of the cold sore, people will not see a blister. People with recurring cold sores may present milder symptoms. Doctors recommend starting treatment as soon as these symptoms begin.

Treatment for cold sores may include oral or topical medications. Sometimes people will use both types to treat a cold sore.

Oral medications for cold sores include:

• acyclovir (Zovirax)
• famciclovir (Famvir)
• valacyclovir (Valtrex)

Topical treatments for cold sores include:

• acyclovir (Zovirax) cream
• docosanol (Abreva)
• penciclovir (Denavir) cream

Treatment aims to shorten the duration of the cold sore. In one study published in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, researchers found that high doses and short courses of valacyclovir may reduce the duration of a cold sore by about 1 day.

Taking medication when symptoms first appear can prevent or block the cold sore from appearing.

Stage 2

If the person does not use any medication, a fluid-filled blister will likely develop around 1 to 2 days after the initial symptoms.

Stage 3

The third stage, which occurs around day 4, involves the blister opening up and releasing its fluid. Doctors call this stage the ulcer or weeping stage. If another person comes into contact with the blister’s fluid, they may develop a cold sore as well.

Cold sores are contagious and tend to be painful during this stage.

Stage 4

Between days 5 and 8, the cold sore will dry up, leaving a yellow or brown crust. The crust will eventually flake off.

People must take care of the scab during this stage because it can crack or break.

Stage 5

The final stage of a cold sore is the healing stage.

Several scabs may form and flake off during this stage. Every new scab will be smaller and smaller until the wound heals completely. Most often, the cold sore will not leave a scar.

Some doctors suggest that a cold sore can last around 2 to 6 weeks.

People who come into contact with another person’s cold sore may be at risk of infection. However, they would have to come into contact with the fluid when the blister ruptures.

Some people may develop recurring cold sores. According to the American Family Physician (AAP), various stimuli can awaken the hibernating virus, such as:

• stress
• fever
• sun exposure
• extremes in temperature
• ultraviolet radiation
• a compromised immune system
• injury

When a cold sore enters the ulcer or weeping stage, around the fourth day, the cold sore becomes contagious.

People who come into contact with the fluid from another person’s open blister can develop a cold sore between 2 to 20 days after contact.

People can come into contact with fluid from another person’s cold sore through kissing or sharing utensils, drinkware, cosmetics, or towels.

Doctors suggest that treating a cold sore at the start of symptoms, before the blister appears, may prevent the cold sore from appearing.

People with a history of cold sores can usually detect the initial symptoms and know they need to start treatment right away.

Some people get chronic cold sores and may require preventive treatments. Taking acyclovir or valacyclovir every day may prevent cold sores.

According to the AAP, the recommended doses for each drug are:

• acyclovir 400 milligrams (mg), twice daily
• valacyclovir 500 mg, once daily

People with chronic cold sores will need to take preventive treatments regularly. Also, doctors and dentists recommend:

• eating foods high in lysine, such as red meats, fish, and dairy
• applying sunscreen to the face and lips before going outside throughout the year
• shaving with a disposable razor blade when a cold sore appears
• replacing toothbrushes
• avoiding stress

People should avoid intimate contact with people who have cold sores. Avoid sharing utensils, toothbrushes, towels, and razors.

People with cold sores should avoid touching the blister, and if they do, they need to wash their hands thoroughly.

Cold sores are a common infection of nongenital HSV-1 that people can contract through sexual and nonsexual activities.

People who start treatment when they feel tingling and itching around their lips may block the cold sore from appearing.

If a cold sore appears, it will go through five stages from the prodrome stage to healing. During the ulcer stage, people can transmit the virus to another person. The fluid in the blister contains the virus. People with cold sores must avoid kissing and sharing utensils, towels, and drinkware.

A person may have a cold sore for about 2 weeks, but some doctors suggest that a cold sore can last up to 6 weeks. Medications can help shorten the duration of a cold sore.

Cold sore stages: Pictures, duration, and treatment

There are five stages of cold sores. These lead from the initial tingling in the area to the healing stage.

Cold sores, also known as herpes labialis, are caused by nongenital herpes simplex virus type 1. People can develop a cold sore on their lips or in their mouth.

Transmission of the nongenital herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) occurs during childhood through nonsexual contact, but adults can contract the infection through sexual activity. HSV-1 hibernates inside skin cells and neurons under the skin until a trigger stimulates it.

Before the cold sore appears, people may feel a burning, stinging, or itching sensation on their lips. For best results, doctors recommend starting treatment as soon as the tingling begins, before the cold sore appears.

In this article, we discuss the stages of a cold sore and what to do if a cold sore develops. We also explore how doctors treat the infection and how people can avoid getting a cold sore.

A cold sore develops in five stages and will typically last between 9 and 12 days.

Stage 1

Initially, people will feel a tingling, itching, or burning sensation underneath the skin around the mouth or base of the nose. Doctors call this the prodrome stage.

Other symptoms that may occur during this stage include:

• malaise
• fever
• tender or swollen lymph nodes

At this first stage of the cold sore, people will not see a blister. People with recurring cold sores may present milder symptoms. Doctors recommend starting treatment as soon as these symptoms begin.

Treatment for cold sores may include oral or topical medications. Sometimes people will use both types to treat a cold sore.

Oral medications for cold sores include:

• acyclovir (Zovirax)
• famciclovir (Famvir)
• valacyclovir (Valtrex)

Topical treatments for cold sores include:

• acyclovir (Zovirax) cream
• docosanol (Abreva)
• penciclovir (Denavir) cream

Treatment aims to shorten the duration of the cold sore. In one study published in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, researchers found that high doses and short courses of valacyclovir may reduce the duration of a cold sore by about 1 day.

Taking medication when symptoms first appear can prevent or block the cold sore from appearing.

Stage 2

If the person does not use any medication, a fluid-filled blister will likely develop around 1 to 2 days after the initial symptoms.

Stage 3

The third stage, which occurs around day 4, involves the blister opening up and releasing its fluid. Doctors call this stage the ulcer or weeping stage. If another person comes into contact with the blister’s fluid, they may develop a cold sore as well.

Cold sores are contagious and tend to be painful during this stage.

Stage 4

Between days 5 and 8, the cold sore will dry up, leaving a yellow or brown crust. The crust will eventually flake off.

People must take care of the scab during this stage because it can crack or break.

Stage 5

The final stage of a cold sore is the healing stage.

Several scabs may form and flake off during this stage. Every new scab will be smaller and smaller until the wound heals completely. Most often, the cold sore will not leave a scar.

Some doctors suggest that a cold sore can last around 2 to 6 weeks.

People who come into contact with another person’s cold sore may be at risk of infection. However, they would have to come into contact with the fluid when the blister ruptures.

Some people may develop recurring cold sores. According to the American Family Physician (AAP), various stimuli can awaken the hibernating virus, such as:

• stress
• fever
• sun exposure
• extremes in temperature
• ultraviolet radiation
• a compromised immune system
• injury

When a cold sore enters the ulcer or weeping stage, around the fourth day, the cold sore becomes contagious.

People who come into contact with the fluid from another person’s open blister can develop a cold sore between 2 to 20 days after contact.

People can come into contact with fluid from another person’s cold sore through kissing or sharing utensils, drinkware, cosmetics, or towels.

Doctors suggest that treating a cold sore at the start of symptoms, before the blister appears, may prevent the cold sore from appearing.

People with a history of cold sores can usually detect the initial symptoms and know they need to start treatment right away.

Some people get chronic cold sores and may require preventive treatments. Taking acyclovir or valacyclovir every day may prevent cold sores.

According to the AAP, the recommended doses for each drug are:

• acyclovir 400 milligrams (mg), twice daily
• valacyclovir 500 mg, once daily

People with chronic cold sores will need to take preventive treatments regularly. Also, doctors and dentists recommend:

• eating foods high in lysine, such as red meats, fish, and dairy
• applying sunscreen to the face and lips before going outside throughout the year
• shaving with a disposable razor blade when a cold sore appears
• replacing toothbrushes
• avoiding stress

People should avoid intimate contact with people who have cold sores. Avoid sharing utensils, toothbrushes, towels, and razors.

People with cold sores should avoid touching the blister, and if they do, they need to wash their hands thoroughly.

Cold sores are a common infection of nongenital HSV-1 that people can contract through sexual and nonsexual activities.

People who start treatment when they feel tingling and itching around their lips may block the cold sore from appearing.

If a cold sore appears, it will go through five stages from the prodrome stage to healing. During the ulcer stage, people can transmit the virus to another person. The fluid in the blister contains the virus. People with cold sores must avoid kissing and sharing utensils, towels, and drinkware.

A person may have a cold sore for about 2 weeks, but some doctors suggest that a cold sore can last up to 6 weeks. Medications can help shorten the duration of a cold sore.

Herpes (colds on the lips)

Herpes on the lips has several names: “cold” on the lips, fever on the lips, herpes of the lips, herpes labialis, labial or labial herpes.

“Cold” on the lips, mainly caused by herpes simplex virus type I (HSV-I) . 95% of people have this virus in their body. In rare cases, the cause of herpes lips is the herpes simplex virus type 2, (transmitted through oral sex).

The herpes simplex virus, which causes a “cold” on the lips, remains inside the human body for life. At the moment, no medicines and treatments have been developed that would completely destroy the herpes simplex virus in the human body.

Up to 10,000,000 Russians annually suffer from “colds” on the lips. Approximately every 5 Russians get herpes of the lips from 2 to 10 times a year. And only about 5% of the human race has immunity to HSV-I, the reasons for which are still unclear.

The virus enters the body in early childhood: at 3-4 years old, when the antibodies against the herpes virus transmitted to the baby by the mother are depleted. Most often, infection occurs if the child is kissed by carriers of the infection. For example, parents, brothers, sisters and other relatives. In addition to a kiss, the virus can enter the body along with the biological fluids of others, for example, with saliva.

Having come to visit us, it penetrates into the mucous membranes, reaches the nerve endings. Through them, with a current of fluid that feeds the nerves, it rises into the cranial cavity, where it “hides” in the nerve plexus, called the trigeminal ganglion , and “sleeps” there until the moment of reactivation.

Reactivation of the virus is possible at the moment when immunity “decreases”. “Decrease” in immunity can occur under the influence of: colds, flu, menstruation, emotional distress and stress, strong ultraviolet radiation, excessive alcohol consumption, indigestion and fatigue.

Causes of recurrence of herpes on the lips:

– Stress or emotional disorder;

– Various somatic diseases, in particular colds, flu, diabetes, HIV;

– Poisoning or intoxication;

– Alcohol, caffeine and smoking;

– Excessive ultraviolet exposure;

– Hypothermia or overheating;

– Coming of menstruation;

– Overwork and exhaustion;

– Malnutrition/diet or indigestion;

– Other individual factors;

After “awakening” the virus is sent to the nerves (like a train on rails) from the trigeminal ganglion back to the skin. It is important to know that branches that innervate the lips, oral mucosa, gums, skin on the earlobe and part of the cheek depart from the trigeminal plexus. In accordance with the outgoing nerves, lesions on the skin will also be located. As it passes through the nerve, the virus causes inflammation of the nerve tissue, which causes pain along the course of the nerve fiber.

Stages of development of a “cold” on the lips

In its development, the disease goes through stages IV:

Stage I – tingling.

At this time, most people feel that they are getting sick. Before a “cold” appears, the skin at the corners of the mouth or the inside of the lips, or on the tongue, or even all over the face begins to itch.
In a place where a recurrence of herpes will soon develop, harbingers of the disease appear: pain, tingling, tingling, itching. The skin over the site of the future relapse turns red.

The development of the disease can be prevented if drugs based on acyclovir (Zovirax ointment) are used at this stage. If you suffer from severe itching, you can take an aspirin or paracetamol tablet.

Stage II – the stage of inflammation, begins with a small painful vesicle, which gradually increases in size. The bubble is tense and filled with a clear liquid, which later becomes cloudy.

Stage III – stage of ulceration. The bubble bursts, and a colorless liquid flows out of it, stuffed with billions of viral particles. In its place, an ulcer is formed.

At this point, the sick person is highly contagious, as she releases a huge amount of viral particles into the environment. Because of the soreness and sores on the face, people are most annoyed by this stage.

IV stage eschar formation. A crust forms over the sores, if damaged, pain and bleeding can occur.

Herpes rashes are most often located on the red border of the lips, but can also be on the nose, on the cheeks, in the ears, on the forehead, in the oral cavity: on the gums, the inner surface of the lips and cheeks.

Complications of the “cold” on the lips

If personal hygiene rules are not followed, the virus can affect other parts of the body: if you rub your eyes with your hands after touching the blisters or sores, you can provoke ophthalmic herpes 9 0006 or herpes eye – severe eye damage, sometimes leading to decreased vision and even blindness. Herpetic eczema may develop – a virus infection of the skin of the fingers.

If you kiss someone with ulcerated lips, you can pass the infection to the child or loved ones.

Oral sex with a partner with an active “cold” on the lips can lead to “ genital herpes “. Those. during an outbreak of a “cold” on the lips, herpes can be mechanically transferred from the lips of an “active” sexual partner in oral sex to the genitals of the recipient of oral caresses.

This is how patient M. describes the severe course of herpetic infection on the lips: He is very worried about headaches and intoxication, as a rule, for no apparent reason, symptoms of severe poisoning appear. Tablets from the “head” help with difficulty, more or less saves an injection of analgin with diphenhydramine. Not a single doctor even wanted to talk about a headache and listen .”

In people with reduced immunity (immunosuppression, HIV infection), necrotic forms of the course with the formation of scars on the skin are possible. 6.” Colds are contagious! Always wash your hands with soap and water before and after touching cold sores, including after applying antiviral cream.

– Don’t touch your eyes! Especially women during make-up;

– Do not use saliva to wet contact lenses.

– Despite itching and pain, do not touch rashes, kiss, especially with children, use someone else’s lipstick or borrow your own, smoke one cigarette with a friend (girlfriend).

– Do not attempt to remove blisters or crusts to avoid transmission of infection to other parts of the body or bacterial infection.

– Stop oral sex! Oral sex during a “cold” on the lips of an “active” partner can cause genital herpes in a partner who is passively participating in oral sex. In this case, herpes from the lips of the “active” partner can be transferred to the genitals of the partner receiving caresses.
– If you have a cold on your lips, use individual dishes or towels, do not drink from other people’s glasses…

Newborn care. To avoid contracting herpes in the newborn, women who have cold sores on the lips should thoroughly wash their hands before touching their baby. If there are blisters or sores on the lips, a disposable surgical mask or gauze bandage should be used while caring for the child until the sores dry out. During a cold on the lips, do not kiss or sniff the child. If there is herpes on any other part of the body, then it must be carefully closed and in no case should it come into contact with the skin of the child.

REMEMBER:

– By the time you feel the tingling, the virus has already started, which means it’s time to start using the antiviral cream or other antiviral drugs prescribed by your doctor without delay;

– Use your medicine!

Medicines can help stop a relapse or speed up recovery.

Use aciclovir creams and ointments to help heal blisters and ulcers quickly, supplements containing either zinc or L-LYSINE. Remember that the use of corticosteroids (hydrocortisone ointment) reduces itching, but dramatically increases the area and severity of the lesions and the duration of the painful period.

– Apply antiviral ointments with cosmetic sticks.

To apply antiviral ointments (Acyclovir, Zovirax) to herpetic eruptions, use special cosmetic sticks, as shown in this picture.

Applying ointments to the lesion directly with the fingers can cause the virus to be transferred from the lips to the skin of the fingers.

– If you have frequent relapses, then make sure that you always have the medicine at hand. Like a passport or money, keep it with you at all times;

– Aciclovir creams and ointments must be used at least 4 times a day for 5 days.

– Valaciclovir may be prescribed for one-day treatment of lip herpes by a physician. If you take two tablets of valaciclovir 500 mg first in the morning and then in the evening, within 24 hours from the onset of the disease, then a cold on the lips will not develop or the healing of herpetic lesions will occur faster.

– If a “cold” does not go away within 10 days, be sure to consult a dermatologist, as a “cold” on the lips can be a symptom of other serious diseases that require specialized treatment.

– Prolonged course of a cold on the lips (more than 30 days) may be a sign of a sharp decrease in immunity, benign tumors and oncological diseases, HIV infection, lymphoproliferative diseases.

Lip herpes diagnosis | Haleon HealthPartner

Lip Herpes Cycle Information

• Stage 1: Stinging

  The tingling sensation that occurs before the rash appears is caused by reactivation of a dormant HSV-1 virus located in the trigeminal ganglion. ^2.3

  • The virus migrates to the nerve ending near the oral mucosa (lips/oral cavity) ³
  • It invades cells in/near the oral mucosa ⁴
  • Infection begins with the spread of the virus to multiple lesions from a single infected nerve ³

• Stage 2: Redness/swelling

  The immune system triggers an inflammatory process that leads to redness and swelling. ⁵

• Stage 3: Bubble

  Without adequate treatment, there is a high probability of progression of herpes of the lips to the formation of a bubble. ³

  • After 2-3 cycles of viral replication, the points of infection expand and connect, forming a clinically pronounced lesion against the background of hyperemia ³
  • A collection of small, fluid-filled blisters appear, usually on the vermilion border of the lip (the line separating the lip from adjacent skin) ⁶

• Stage 4: Ulcer

  • Fluid-filled blisters burst, forming a shallow red ulcer. The excreted fluid is highly contagious. ² Soft crust starts to form ⁵
  • Often the most painful stage ²

• Stage 5: Crusting

  Ulcer dries up, forming a tougher yellow/brown crust. A scab is forming. ^2.5

• Stage 6: Healing

  Dry eschar flakes off leaving residual redness and swelling. Skin re-epithelialization is complete and the virus returns to a latent state. ^2.7

Symptoms and situations in which pharmacists should advise the patient to seek medical advice