Cold Sores
Cold sores are caused by a herpes virus, most often the herpes simplex 1 virus. Cold sores should not be confused with canker sores, which are small ulcerations in the mouth. Rather, cold sores are fluid-filled blisters that form on the borders of the lips. The blisters, which are contagious, later break, ooze, and crust over before healing. Recurrences are common and can be triggered by stress, sun exposure, illness, and menstruation. Genital herpes infection (usually caused by herpes simplex 2) is a related condition and potentially may be treated in much the same way as herpes simplex 1.
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