If you’ve ever had a cold sore, I am sure you can agree that beyond its at-times unpleasant look, they seem to last forever! Despite many people thinking they are alone dealing with cold sores, cold sores (aka Herpes Simplex) is a very common condition that affects close to 90% of the global population.
Debunking Herpes Simplex
Although many seem to be embarrassed by the term “herpes”, there is truly nothing to be ashamed of since it is so common. The Herpes Simplex virus (HSV), can be expressed in two ways: Type 1 & Type 2.
Type 1 is expressed through cold sores, and can result from sun exposure, lack of sleep, alcohol usage, skin irritation, skin disease and stress.
Type 2 also known as genital herpes, is transmitted via genital or skin-to-skin contact with a Type 2 carrier. Though many type 2 carriers are asymptomatic, those who show symptoms may experience extreme discomfort in the form of itching, burning, sores, swollen glands, and at times fever and body aches.
Three Common Causes of Cold Sores in Winter
As previously mentioned, there are many reasons for herpes simplex (cold sores) to form. However, here are the top reasons you may experience more cold sores in the winter months specifically.
- Temperature. During the winter months, your skin is constantly exposed to drastic temperature changes which can be irritating to the skin. Not only is it cold outside, but the increased use of indoor heating irritates the skin by stripping your skin of its natural moisture. As a result, you may experience dry and cracking lips which may expose your lips to the virus and/or irritate your skin to the point of an outbreak.
- Cold and flu season. Since most of us tend to spend more time indoors during the cooler months sparking cold and flu season, our immune systems tend to weaken. In times of weakened immune systems, those who have the virus are more susceptible to cold sores, and those who don’t have the virus are more susceptible to catching the virus.
- Stress. This is a very common reason for cold sore flare-ups. With increased seasonal depression and the stress of the holidays approaching, susceptibility to herpes simplex increases, as stressors tend to put our immune system in a vulnerable state.
When to seek medical attention for cold sores?
It is important to seek medical attention immediately if you believe you are developing a cold sore or other form of herpes simplex. This can both limit the likelihood of transmitting to your loved ones, and also limits the length and severity of your outbreak (and its ability to spread to other areas of your body). For type 1 specifically, those who are prone to multiple cold sore outbreaks a year, your skin care physician may prescribe a repeat medication so that you can tackle the cold sore upon first noticing it.
Please note: If you are pregnant and have developed any form of herpes simplex, it is important to see a skin care physician immediately as the infection may get transmitted to your child during birth.
In need of urgent care for a cold sore, book your consultation with Dr. Shehla Ebrahim today!