Welcome to EmpowHER. Thank you for reaching out to us with your questions.
Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types of herpes simplex virus: HSV-1 and HSV-2. Both virus types can cause sores around the mouth (herpes labialis) and on the genitals (genital herpes).
Both of these viruses can affect your mouth or genitals and can be spread by oral sex. Cold sores are contagious even if you don't see the sores.
Cold sores generally clear up without treatment in two to four weeks. Several types of prescription antiviral drugs may speed the healing process. Examples include:
To help avoid spreading cold sores to other people or to other parts of your body, you might try some of the following precautions:
Avoid skin-to-skin contact with others while blisters are present. The virus spreads most easily when there are moist secretions from the blisters.
Avoid sharing items. Utensils, towels, lip balm and other items can spread the virus when blisters are present.
Keep your hands clean. When you have a cold sore, wash your hands carefully before touching yourself and other people, especially babies.
Anonymous, you and your partner may want to discuss oral sex and make a decision.
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Hello Anonymous,
Welcome to EmpowHER. Thank you for reaching out to us with your questions.
Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types of herpes simplex virus: HSV-1 and HSV-2. Both virus types can cause sores around the mouth (herpes labialis) and on the genitals (genital herpes).
Both of these viruses can affect your mouth or genitals and can be spread by oral sex. Cold sores are contagious even if you don't see the sores.
Cold sores generally clear up without treatment in two to four weeks. Several types of prescription antiviral drugs may speed the healing process. Examples include:
Acyclovir (Xerese, Zovirax)
Valacyclovir (Valtrex)
Famciclovir (Famvir)
Penciclovir (Denavir)
To help avoid spreading cold sores to other people or to other parts of your body, you might try some of the following precautions:
Avoid skin-to-skin contact with others while blisters are present. The virus spreads most easily when there are moist secretions from the blisters.
Avoid sharing items. Utensils, towels, lip balm and other items can spread the virus when blisters are present.
Keep your hands clean. When you have a cold sore, wash your hands carefully before touching yourself and other people, especially babies.
Anonymous, you and your partner may want to discuss oral sex and make a decision.
Regards,
May 25, 2017 - 9:11amMaryann
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