Cold Sores on Lips: Treatment, Causes, and Symptoms

Cold sores on lips

Cold Sores are tiny blisters but even slight nuances have a significant impact. The primary issue with these problems is that they are embarrassing and uncomfortable. We’re talking about cold sores, which are tiny fluid-filled fever blisters that form around the lips and anywhere on the face, including the cheeks, nose, and chin. Cold Sore and herpes are related. It’s a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). 

Cold sores are viral viruses that can spread from one person to another. These can be spread through direct touch with someone who has an active cold sore or through saliva from an infected individual, even if the cold sore’s symptoms are not obvious.  

A person may develop a cold sore multiple times in a year or throughout their lifetime. This condition can affect people of any age. The majority of cases occurred in children under the age of five, and the likelihood of developing a cold sore decreases beyond the age of 35. Cold sores are a prevalent disease worldwide, affecting people at least twice a year. There are numerous preventative methods such as cold sore patches that help to minimize the number and extent of cold sore outbreaks.

Cold Sore Symptoms

Cold sores

Symptoms of a cold sore include tingling and burning where the sore is ready to emerge. After a while, that area will turn red, and you will observe a raised red blister of fluid. Touching the lump will cause pain. You may also notice symptoms like fever, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. However, it is recommended to begin cold sore treatment at the early stage, when you experience burning sensations. The blisters will then be easier to detect and treat. These symptoms can be felt anywhere, such as in your eyes or nose; if you feel it bothersome in your eyes, it is recommended to visit the best dermatologist and get it treated.

Cold Sore: Treatment & Causes

The cold sore is a viral infection that causes the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). So, if someone in your family is already suffering from it, you might catch it if you come into contact with them. It spreads through saliva or close contact, most commonly through kissing or sharing utensils, straws, towels, or lip balm with someone who has a cold sore on the lips. Another way it occurs is if someone has previously been infected with HSV, it remains inside the body and never leaves. It is reactivated when triggered.

Cold sores trigger points are,

  • Hormonal Changes 
  • Dry or chapped lips 
  • Sunburn
  • Fatigue 
  • Stress
  • Cold sores from Fever or cold
  • Extreme hot or cold temperatures
cold sore lips treatment

Let’s have a look at the cold sore treatment. The condition is widespread and will not go away, but we can control the outbreaks. You can also use medications to make the cold sore more bearable and heal it quickly. You can also apply prescription medicines, ointments, and cold sore patches to the area where it will occur or has already appeared.

 If you catch it early on, when it feels like it’s burning, it might not appear. The dermatologist will also prescribe antiviral drugs that can be taken orally to prevent the viral infection from spreading. If this doesn’t work, the doctor will administer antivirals intravenously.

This was common medical care for cold sores. Let’s look into what you can do on your end to avoid this from happening.

Cold Sore Prevention Tips

To avoid getting a cold sore on your lips or anywhere, you can follow these tips: 

  • Avoid coming into contact in any way with the person who is having a cold. 
  • Don’t share things like towels, lip balm, or plates with the infected person.
  • Maintain good hygiene and wash your hands before touching your lips or face. 
  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle that will boost your immune system.
  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. 
  • Identify and avoid factors that trigger cold sore outbreaks, such as stress, fatigue, sunlight exposure, and certain foods like chocolate, nuts, and citrus fruits.
  • Protect your lips from sun exposure, as sunburn can trigger cold, sore outbreaks. 

Conclusion

Many difficulties arise during the summer and winter, one of which is cold soreness. That occurs when the skin gradually becomes dry, then begins to burn, followed by a red bumpy appearance that is often pus-filled, and this is known as a cold sore. The symptoms of the condition include tingling and burning sensations.  

Cold sores on the lips are quite common, and sharing personal belongings should be avoided. If you see the early symptoms, then go for cold sore lips treatment as soon as possible. The herpes simplex virus (HSV) causes cold sores, which remain in the body for the rest of one’s life and can be provoked by stress, illness, or sun exposure. 

Differences between cold sores and herpes: cold sores are transmitted by saliva only, while herpes is sexually transmitted. Antiviral lotions or drugs can be used to speed up healing and alleviate discomfort in cold sores. If you see any symptoms and you are from Bangalore rush to the best dermatologist in Bangalore and get your cold sore treated.