Top Causes Of Cold Sores

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Cold sores are very small, painful, fluid-filled blisters that are caused by the HSV or Herpes Simplex Virus. They are known to occur in the mouth region and may also be found on the nose and lips. While they heal quickly, the virus tends to be resistant and the sores can re-occur. Let us examine and see the causes of cold sores.

Different Causes Of Cold Sores

Viral Infection

As mentioned earlier, the virus that causes cold sores is the Herpes Simplex Virus. The HSV comes in two forms namely HSV1 and HSV2. Cold sores are normally caused by HSV 1. The infection is very contagious and the virus is easily transmitted from person to person through kissing, touching and physical contact.

The saliva is the most potent carrier of the virus. The disease is very contagious when the blisters are active and the person may have to be quarantined. There are instances of the infection being passed on even when the sores are not prominent.

Fevers, Colds And Flu

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The virus lays dormant in a person for several years and may suddenly become active especially during a phase of normal flu or fever. The virus then travels down to the superficial nerve cells on the surface of the mouth and causes blisters. Certain infections like severe colds may thus precipitate an attack of cold sores. That is why this condition is often termed as ‘fever blisters’.

Suppressed Immunity

A change or decline in immunity can cause the virus to become active. This happens if the patient is on immuno suppressant drugs and has compromised immunity. Flare-ups of fever blisters are also seen in AIDS patients.

Stress

Although the reason is not quite known, certain instances of acute stress can also exacerbate the condition of cold sores and may cause the condition to flare up.

Sun Exposure

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Excessive exposure to the sun’s rays may also cause cold sores to occur. This usually happens when the sores are in an active stage and the sun light hastens the process of blisters appearing.

HSV2 Virus

The HSV 2 virus is the one that is responsible for vaginal herpes but some researchers and doctors have purported that this virus can also cause cold sores especially if it encounters the saliva or parts of the face like the nose and the mouth.

Oral Trauma

Oral trauma like harsh dental treatments can also cause the infection to flare up. The blisters may suddenly appear within a couple of days after undergoing dental treatment. Although this is unusual, it is known to occur.

Poor Nutrition

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An unhealthy diet and malnutrition can further affect the immunity of a person and this may lead to the recurrence of cold sores. Thus, it becomes important to eat well and take adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals to stay in good health.

Menstruation

Menstruation in women is also known to trigger cold sores in women. These are the commonly found causes and triggers of cold sores. While there is no cure for them, they can be prevented through good hygiene and care.

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