Causes and risk factors:
Herpes simplex virus is of two types Type 1 and Type 2. Cold sores are caused by type 1 herpes simplex virus. It affects the nerves and remains in a latent phase in the ganglion. It is a contagious disease hence it is easily spreads on sharing same utensils, shaving razors or use of personal things like towels, napkin etc. It occurs when the virus is contracted to the abraded skin tissue or oral mucosa, hence kissing or oral sex can also lead to its spread to another person. Local skin trauma, sunburn, lip tattooing, dental or neural surgery can also trigger cold sore.
Clinical presentations:
Formation of eruptions which are filled with fluid/pus is the characteristic feature of cold sores. These blister are seen on or around the lips. Prior to formation of blister the patient experiences pain or burning or tingling sensation on the lips while later the eruptions bursts open and secrete thick pus like fluid. Crusts formation can be seen. Swelling of lymph nodes, fever, body ache, is the other associated symptoms seen. Apart from affection on the lips the infection can also spread to other areas of the body. It is reoccurring phenomena.
Diagnosis and investigations:
The symptoms narrated by the patient and the local examination carried out by the dermatologist can help in diagnosing the case. Routine blood test, blood test for herpes (PCR) and culture of the fluid from eruptions can aid in confirming the diagnosis.
Treatment:
Anti viral medications is the main line of treatment. Certain preventive measures like avoiding touching of the affected areas, washing hands frequently, avoiding sexual intimacy during active infection needs to be implemented.
Other modes of treatment:
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating the pain. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
Recent update:
Researchers at Umea University, Sweden, claim this in two studies in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia,that Infection with herpes simplex virus increases the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, researchers claim.
