The cause of cold sores is a virus called: Herpes Simplex Virus. This article is going to focus on the cause of cold sores and how contracting the herpes simplex virus will effect you for the rest of your life.
There are actually two strains of the Herpes Simplex Virus: type one and type two. Generally speaking, type one is the Herpes strain that causes cold sores and other facial sores. Herpes simplex type it known as the strain that causes sores "below the waist"-- usually on the genital area.
Although both strains of the virus usually are related to a specific area of the body, it is important to understand that both type 1 and type 2 can cause sores anywhere. So if you come in contact with any cold sores (regardless of the location), you should immediately wash your hands before touching any other part of your body.
At this point you may be asking: So, how did I contract the Herpes Simplex Virus that is the cause of cold sores? Usually the virus is contracted by direct skin-to-skin contact. The virus can also be passed from person to person by sharing items such as utensils, lip balm, and razors. This virus can be passed even while it is in the dormant state.
Because the cause of cold sores is the Herpes Simplex virus, once you have contracted that virus you will have cold sores for the rest of your life. There is no way to cure cold sores, even if you don't have any current open sores the virus will still stay dormant in your body.
Cold sore outbreaks vary from person to person. Some people only experience cold sores once or twice a year, while other people have frequent cold sore outbreaks.
By: Joleen L Dixon
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Although the cause of cold sores cannot be cured, there are many home remedies for cold sores that can help to reduce the healing time and prevent future breakouts. Visit our website for more information about cold sore treatments: http://coldsoretreatments.info/
