A
cold sore (also referred to as a fever blister) is a viral infection of
the skin caused by the Herpes Simplex virus. The virus causes painful,
fluid filled blisters to erupt on the lips, and periodically under the
nose and on the chin. Some patients experience an itching and burning
around the area of the blisters, while others have no symptoms at all.
After eruption the blisters will dry up and form a yellow crust. The crust
will fall off and the redness of the blisters will slowly go away (this
process is usually complete within two weeks). The virus is extremely
contagious (as many people spread the virus because they are unaware that
they are infected) and it has been estimated that 80-90% of the population
have been exposed. Over-the-counter medications can provide temporary
pain relief, and all work best when you treat the sore immediately at
the onset of the first symptom. If you have any suspicious lesions or
blisters and would feel more comfortable having the area evaluated, please
call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hopgood.
Advanced Dental Concepts
Richard D. Hopgood D.M.D., M.A.G.D.
296 Lowell Street
Andover, MA 01810
Telephone: 978-475-2431
Email: info@andoverdmd.com
A
cold sore (also referred to as a fever blister) is a viral infection of
the skin caused by the Herpes Simplex virus. The virus causes painful,
fluid filled blisters to erupt on the lips, and periodically under the
nose and on the chin. Some patients experience an itching and burning
around the area of the blisters, while others have no symptoms at all.
After eruption the blisters will dry up and form a yellow crust. The crust
will fall off and the redness of the blisters will slowly go away (this
process is usually complete within two weeks). The virus is extremely
contagious (as many people spread the virus because they are unaware that
they are infected) and it has been estimated that 80-90% of the population
have been exposed. Over-the-counter medications can provide temporary
pain relief, and all work best when you treat the sore immediately at
the onset of the first symptom. If you have any suspicious lesions or
blisters and would feel more comfortable having the area evaluated, please
call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hopgood.