In high school, my lips always got really dry and cracked. I have very sensitive lips, and every time it got dry outside, I would have to apply chapstick like it was my job.
Of course, none of this was made any better by my lifestyle as a gymnast. I spent five hours a day in a gym filled with chalk that dried out my skin.
Ever since, I've been very conscious of keeping my lips healthy. I never go anywhere without lip balm.
A few years ago, my friend offered me a sip of her drink, but then mentioned that she had a cold sore. I immediately rejected her drink offer, but then I wondered if I'd ever accidentally shared food or drinks with anyone who had a cold sore and forgot to tell me (or didn't know).
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Do you know the facts about cold sores? Find out more about cold sores below!
Photos: Morgan Swofford for LittleThings
1. What Are Cold Sores?
Cold sores are small, fluid-filled blisters that form on and around your lips.
They're typically pretty small, but they can be annoying and uncomfortable.
2. What Causes Cold Sores?
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, "Cold sores are caused by a contagious virus called herpes simplex virus (HSV)."
There are two different types of HSV. The one that causes oral herpes is type 1.
3. What Do Cold Sores Look Like?
Cold sores look like unsightly, small blisters on the outside of the mouth. They're usually on or around the lips, and sometimes they are grouped in patches.
If the blisters break, they may start to ooze or crust over. A scab might form after that.
4. What Do Cold Sores Feel Like?
Cold sores have a variety of symptoms. They usually start by itching, burning, or tingling, then a painful bump will appear before the blister erupts.
After the blister forms, it may burst open and feel somewhat raw.
5. Are Cold Sores The Same As Canker Sores?
Cold sores and canker sores are not the same.
The Mayo Clinic explains, "Canker sores involve only the mucous membrane and aren't caused by the herpes simplex virus."
Unlike cold sores, canker sores are not contagious.
6. How Do Cold Sores Spread?
HSV is contagious and can be spread via close contact, like kissing, sharing drinks, etc.
Cold sores can be contagious even if you aren't able to see the sores.
7. Are Cold Sores Related To Genital Herpes?
Many people have heard the rumor that cold sores are the same as genital herpes. This is not true.
Genital herpes and cold sores are related, but they're not the same.
While cold sores are HSV type 1, genital herpes are HSV type 2. That said, both types of HSV can occur on the mouth and genitals and can be spread by oral sex.
8. Do Cold Sores Leave Scars?
Fortunately, cold sores do not typically leave scars.
In most cases, cold sores go away on their own in a few days or a few weeks.
9. Can You Cure Cold Sores?
There's no cure for cold sores, but there are a number of treatment options.
Antiviral medications can help cold sores heal faster and may even help prevent sores in people who get them regularly.
10. When Should You See A Doctor?
If your cold sores don't heal within two weeks, or your symptoms are severe, you should set up an appointment with your doctor.
You should also seek care if you have a weakened immune system, if you have irritation in your eyes, or if you have cold sores frequently.
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*Disclaimer: The advice on LittleThings is not a substitute for consultation with a medical professional or treatment for a specific condition. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified professional. Please contact your health-care provider with questions and concerns.
