The type 1 herpes simplex virus causes cold sores around the mouth. This virus is very contagious and it is believed that the vast majority of the population carry it. Most people first become infected with the virus as children when they are in contact with adults who are carriers. It does, however, lie dormant for long periods of time and only becomes active when it is triggered by certain stimuli.

What are the main symptoms of a cold sore?

Those of you who suffer from cold sores regularly may be aware of a tingling sensation that occurs just before your cold sore develops. This is then followed by the formation of painful red blisters around the mouth that may weep but that will eventually crust over, usually within 24 hours. Most outbreaks will resolve within 7 days but early treatment with over-the-counter medication may speed your recovery.

What triggers a cold sore?

A number of triggers can cause the dormant herpes simplex virus to become active and cause cold sores. These triggers may include:

Stress

Emotional upset

Fatigue

Sunlight

Weakened immune system (when you are feeling run down)

If you are aware of the triggers that cause your cold sores do what you can to avoid these.

What treatments are available over-the-counter for cold sores?

Aciclovir

Aciclovir is an antiviral treatment found in a topical cream over-the-counter. If applied at the tingling stage of your cold sore it may speed up the healing time of the cold sore. Aciclovir needs to be applied five times daily for five days to have an optimal effect.

Penciclovir

Penciclovir is another antiviral cream that has recently become available to sell as a pharmacy medicine. It should be applied every 2 hours (around eight times a day) for four days to have optimal effect.

As mentioned, these antiviral preparations may speed up the healing time of the cold sore however they will not stop you spreading your cold sore to another person.

When using the above creams it is important to wash your hands before and after using them to prevent the spread of the infection

Cold sore patches

Cold sore patches are an alternative to treating your cold sore with a cream. They can be effective at preventing cross-contamination as they reduce your ability to touch your cold sore and, therefore, reduce the spread of infection to you and to others.

Tops tips on avoiding and treating cold sores

* Don't pick cold cores because this may spread the virus to other parts of your body

* Avoid the triggers that may set of a cold sore

* As soon as you notice the first tingle of a cold sore treat it with one of the antiviral preparations mentioned

* Wash your hands after touching your cold sore and don't put your fingers near your eyes.

* Avoid direct contact with someone who has an active cold sore

* Use only your own face cloth and towel

When buying over-the-counter medicine it is important that you make your pharmacist aware if you have any underlying medical conditions, if you are taking any other medication or complementary therapy, or if your symptoms persist.

Let your pharmacist know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding and always read the product information before taking the medication.

It is also important to keep all medicines out of sight and out of reach of children.

I'm keen to hear from YOU! If you have any comments or queries about this week's topic or if you would like to suggest a future health issue to be covered please email me at philipcrilly@yahoo.co.uk