Did Your Cold Cause Your Cold Sore?

With the cooling temperatures approaching in November, sickness can approach as well. Do you find it ironic that the two descriptive words for when you’re sick have to do with temperature? “Cold” and “Fever” are two commonly used terms once sickness starts rolling in. Those two words can also describe a common sore that may show up on your body, particularly around your mouth as well. Those sores are commonly known as fever blisters or cold sores.

The interesting thing about these sores is that they are not in anyway related to temperature, a cold or a fever. They are caused by an infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV). About ninety percent of all people will get at least one cold sore in their lifetime. Typically, after you get one the first time you won’t get one again. Only 40% of U.S. adults will get a repeated cold sore because after your first time, your body may develop antibodies to help you never get one again.

Cold sores are contagious. You can catch HSV when you come in contact with someone or something else that is carrying the virus. HSV type 1 and type 2 have the potential to cause sores on your genitals as well. These can be spread by oral sex. To protect against the spread of HSV you should avoid kissing, oral sex and sharing of utensils, cups, towels, lip balms and razors.

Contact our experts at Medical Dermatology Specialists today if you have Herpes. We carry the knowledge and qualified experience to get the skin care answers you deserve.