About 3.7 billion adults worldwide suffer from cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus. In Italy approximately 150 thousand cases are found every year.
Many have no symptoms, but these viruses can still be easily transmitted and cause very frequent infections.
Typical symptoms are small blisters or ulcers, especially in the lip area.
After one is infected once, it is quite difficult to remove the virus from the body, which is why cold sores sufferers tend to get reinfected.
There is no surefire protection against this virus other than avoiding contact with blisters and ulcers of those who are already infected.
Cold sores during pregnancy should definitely be treated by a doctor, as the virus could be dangerous for the baby.
How it is transmitted
Herpes is easily transmitted. A particularly high risk is direct contact with other people’s blisters or ulcers, for example when kissing or sharing the same glass or bottle.
Herpes can also be transmitted through droplet infection resulting from coughing or sneezing.
It can also pass from one part of the body to another, simply through the hands.
As long as blisters or ulcers can be seen, herpes is still contagious. The risk of transmission is lower if the blisters are already encrusted.
Cold sores can become a real discomfort for those who suffer from it; what could really help us
The first important thing to do is to avoid outbreaks, prevent transmission, and treat symptoms as they appear.
If we have touched herpes blisters or sores, we need to wash and disinfect our hands.
Unfortunately, there is currently no vaccine against herpes simplex infection.
To avoid herpes reinfection, these tips should be followed:
- eat healthily;
- getting enough sleep;
- playing sports regularly;
- avoid stress as much as possible;
- treat your lips with a balm that has a protection factor against UV rays.
If herpes does appear anyway, you should use inhibitory agents at the first sign, asking your doctor which products are most suitable.
How long does it take to recover from cold sores?
Cold sores can become a great discomfort for those who suffer from it. Small blisters with watery content (“cold sores”) turn into flat ulcers after a few days and heal within two to three weeks.
After healing, however, the “dormant” viruses remain in some nerve cells, they could reactivate and cause some symptoms again.
Herpes viruses, unfortunately, cannot be removed from the body. They can reactivate if the immune system is weakened or as a result of triggers, such as stress. But there are some useful tips to follow in order not to make the situation worse.
Antiviral creams that are sold in pharmacies can shorten the course of the disease and accelerate recovery.
In case of recurrent herpes, there is the possibility of long-term prophylaxis with low-dose herpes drugs, but always and only under medical advice.
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