Can applying ointment cure herpes labialis (cold sores)?

Skin conditions are often caused by viral invasion. Bacteria can enter through a small cut and make inflammation worse, and skin is always exposed to external irritants. Herpes simplex also occurs in various areas, and many people struggle with treatment. In particular, when it appears around the lips, people who are active in social life often complain of major discomfort. Today, let’s look at the symptoms, treatment, and prevention of herpes simplex.

What is herpes simplex?

Herpes simplex is an infectious disease caused by the herpes simplex virus, HSV. HSV can be broadly divided into two types. HSV-1 mainly causes herpes around the lips and face, while HSV-2 mainly affects the genital area. It can occur through contact, and it can also spread through sharing items.

This virus enters through small cuts in the skin or mucous membranes. Rather than showing symptoms immediately on the surface after infection, it remains dormant in the ganglia and later shows symptoms when immunity weakens or when a person is under stress.

It spreads through direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes of an infected person, or through saliva, oral secretions, and discharge from the infected area, so family members living together need to be especially careful. Once infected, the virus remains dormant in the body and repeatedly causes symptoms, so recurrence is common.

These symptoms appear when herpes simplex develops

One of the most common forms of herpes simplex is cold sores. Small blisters appear around the lips or inside the mouth, and when the blisters burst, they can form crusts along with pain. They are easy to see with the naked eye. If the area around the lips feels prickly or itchy often, and you scratch it without realizing, it can feel burning and swell up. Several transparent or yellow blisters appear in clusters.

If you force these blisters to burst, they can spread to nearby areas, so it is best not to touch them if possible. Rather than waiting for them to go away on their own, you should receive dermatological treatment because this is a highly contagious condition. It is important to treat it early, since it does not just remain as cold sores around the lips; the virus can also spread to other areas and cause fever or neuralgia.

It can be confused with shingles

Herpes simplex is often confused with shingles because of its symptoms. However, the two diseases have different causative viruses and symptoms. Herpes simplex is caused by the herpes simplex virus, while shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Herpes simplex appears around the lips, face, or genitals, whereas shingles develops along the ganglia, so it is commonly seen on the torso.

Herpes simplex is characterized by small blisters appearing locally in clusters, while shingles also has the characteristic of forming a long band along a nerve. Shingles often occurs in people with weakened health, so it is also commonly seen in patients after discharge from the hospital and in elderly people.

Treatment for herpes labialis caused by herpes simplex

The goal of herpes simplex treatment is to relieve symptoms and prevent recurrence. For herpes labialis caused by herpes simplex, ointments containing antiviral ingredients are prescribed. Applying such ointments in the early stage, when blisters first appear, may help reduce symptoms and speed healing. If recurrences are frequent or symptoms are severe, antiviral medications and pain relievers are prescribed. When the area around the lips becomes dry, the burning sensation and pain can feel worse, so applying a moisturizer can also help relieve symptoms.

In general, blisters that appear on the skin often burst and infect nearby areas. Therefore, if you notice blisters, it is best not to touch them, and not sharing cups or tableware can help prevent transmission. Efforts to strengthen immunity are also necessary. This herpes simplex virus remains dormant and recurs when fatigue increases and the body becomes weak, so it is important to improve your physical condition by maintaining a healthy diet and continuing exercise. Are you wondering how to care for cold sores when they appear? If so, please avoid touching them and continue with dermatological treatment and preventive care.