Do you need a test to diagnose cold sores?
* No, usually not. * The diagnose tends to be obvious, based on history and the appearance of the lesions * However, if there’s any doubt, your GP can perform a swab.
If I get cold sores often, does it mean something is wrong with my health?
• Not usually. People with recurring cold sores occasionally worry that there’s something wrong with their immune system, or that they’re deficient in a vitamin or mineral. But cold sores are very common, and most people who get them are otherwise perfectly well. • Sometimes tiredness or another viral illness can ma…
How do you catch cold sores?
* Cold sores are spread by skin to skin contact * If you have active cold sores you should avoid newborn babies, elderly, or anyone with a weak immune system (e.g on chemotherapy) * If you have no active cold sores, you’re not usually infectious to others.
Is there a cure for cold sores?
No, unfortunately once you’ve been infected, HSV1 stays in your body. In some people it means cold sores flare up from time to time, in others HSV1 lies dormant.
What causes cold sores?
* Cold sores are caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1, otherwise known as HSV1. * HSV2 is a similar virus which usually causes genital herpes, but rarely can also cause cold sores around the mouth. * Cold sores are spread by skin to skin contact, such as kissing someone who has an active cold sore. * The fir…
What is the best treatment for cold sores?
• Usually no particular medication for cold sores is recommended- they naturally get better over 7-10 days. • There is some general advice when you have active cold sores, such as avoid touching the cold sores; wash hands regularly especially after applying creams or before putting in your contact lenses; and don’t …
