Why do I get cold sores

asks tonyb:
A. If you get cold sores, it means you have been infected by the herpes simplex virus. Once the virus is present - usually on the lips or the skin around the mouth and nose - you've got it for life, and can expect to suffer from frequent outbreaks. That's why you have to be careful about kissing anyone who looks like they may have a cold sore - once caught, it's with you forever.

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Q. How do you know it's a cold sore
A. It starts with a tingle and an itch on the outside of the mouth, lips or nose. This is followed by a small red lump which develops into a fluid-filled blister. This blister is itchy and very painful, and it's difficult to stop touching it. But touching it can cause it to spread and you could end up with a very nasty cluster of cold sores. Once the blister bursts, a scab forms over it and it then starts to heal up.

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Q. Once you've caught the virus, what triggers an outbreak
A. It can be any number of things: cold winter winds or summer sunshine, being under stress or having a cold, when you're run down or having a period.

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Q. How long do cold sores last
A. Up to three weeks.

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Q. Are they contagious
A. Very. If you get cold sores, you must take great care not to kiss anyone, and to wash your hands frequently because it is very difficult to stop yourself touching the sores.

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Q. What can I do if I get one
A. Don't touch it! Cold sores can become infected and spread.

• Acyclovir is an antiviral drug which can be bought as an over-the-counter cream. It can shorten the life of a cold sore and is most effective if used as soon as symptoms start.
• Zinc cream can be applied as soon as the symptoms appear. It can also be used preventatively twice a month.
• Tea tree essential oil can be dabbed on with a cotton bud at the first sign of a cold sore and used twice a day until the cold sore starts to heal.

Q. How can I prevent them recurring
A. Keep your immune system healthy by eating lots of a fruit and vegetables and cutting down on junk food.

• Wear a lip cream with a SPF of 15 or higher on sunny days. Wear a protective lip salve on cold days.
• Don't let the skin around your nose and mouth dry out if you catch a cold.

NB If you get cold sores all the times, it could be a sign that your immune system that is under pressure or that you have low thyroid function, so see your GP.

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By Sheena Miller

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