1. Cold Sores Equals Herpes
As most people know, if you have cold sores, then you have herpes. However, the good news is that the strain of the herpes virus that causes cold sores isn't the same as the one responsible for the STD version that causes tender genital sores. Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) type I, while genital herpes are caused by type II. Some people are born with the cold sore causing virus, while others get it from another person.
2. Transmitted Through Spit
The bad news is that you can spread HSV I to someone else through your spit even if you don't currently have a cold sore. To do this, your spit would have to come into contact with someone else's mouth. While it's possible to spread HSV I through your spit, you're much more contagious if you have an active sore. Contagiousness decreases significantly once the blister-like sore dries and becomes crusted over. As with spit, an active sore would need to come into contact with someone else's mouth in order for the virus to spread. Cold sores can be spread to the genital area and eyes as well. An HSV I infection in the eye could scar the cornea and cause blindness.
3. The Life Cycle of a Cold Sore
A cold sore begins when the HSV I virus enters the nerve cells and lies dormant until it chooses to multiply and cause painful, fluid-filled, blister-like sores around your mouth or occasionally in your nose or on your chin or fingers. In extremely rare cases, cold sores can grow on your gums or the roof of your mouth. Most people experience a tingling or pain 1 or 2 days before the blister appears. The virus usually lasts 7 to 10 days. During this time, the blisters break creating a yellow crust. When the crust comes off, it uncovers pinkish skin. Cold sores heal without scars.
4. Avoid the Triggers
No one knows exactly what causes the HSV I virus to grow, but some conditions are thought to be triggers. These triggers are damage to the skin, exposure to ultraviolet radiation like the sun, stress, fevers, immune system changes or hormonal changes like menstruation. You can prevent cold sores by avoiding some of these triggers, but also be aware that cold sores sometimes grow for no apparent reason.
5. Hygiene Can Help
Good hygiene can prevent cold sores from spreading. Prevent spreading cold sores to other people or other parts of your body by washing your hands carefully when you have an active sore. When you have blisters, don't share items such as lip balm and avoid skin contact or mouth-to-mouth kissing.
