Did you know that about half of the people in the United States have a cold sore at least once in their lifetimes? If you’re in that 50 percent, you know that cold sores are unattractive and uncomfortable. Small, fluid-filled blisters, the show up on the lips or around the mouth, either on their own or in a cluster. They hurt, burn, and itch, and then they burst and form a scab. Unfortunately, there’s no cure for cold sores. However, cold sore symptoms can be alleviated, and a doctor can help you get rid of your cold sores fairly quickly. Read on to learn more!
- Cold sores are caused by a virus. It’s the herpes simplex virus type 1, and it can enter the body through bodily secretions. It’s possible to carry the virus without every having a cold sore, and some people have only one outbreak in their lives, but others experience cold sores two to three times a year.
- You can definitely spread cold sores. Cold sores are contagious for at least two weeks after they appear. However, the virus is always in your body, so there’s always a possibility that you could spread it, even if you’re not experiencing an outbreak. If you do have a cold sore, don’t kiss anyone or get too close. Don’t touch the cold sore, either, because you could end up spreading the virus through contact with the fluid. As a rule, never share things like cosmetics, straws, and eating utensils, whether or not you have an active outbreak.
- Cold sore treatment often focuses on relieving symptoms. The cold sore itself may not be the only symptom you experience. Some people have flu-like symptoms along with their cold sore, experiencing fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Over the counter treatments are available to help you feel better, and to ease the discomfort of the cold sores.
- Cold sores usually go away on their own, even without treatment. However, because they’re so uncomfortable, most people will want to treat them. There are effective homeopathic treatments, but the best way to heal a cold sore quickly is with an antiviral medication from your doctor.
The goal of Total Point Urgent Care is to be a convenient healthcare resource for our community. Providing immediate medical care at a fraction of the cost of an emergency room, each neighborhood urgent care clinic in our network offers warm, efficient, personalized care. At our locations in Texas, our on-site technology and services include urgent care walk ins, primary care, specialty care, routine check-ups, flu shots and other vaccinations, COVID-19 testing, and onsite lab and x rays. Soon, we’ll even offer virtual visits so that our patients can choose telecare instead of risking a trip to the clinic. For convenient medical care, visit one of our locations or contact us through our website.
