Cold Sores vs. Herpes: Understanding the Connection

There is actually no difference between cold sores and herpes. Cold sores are caused by infection by the herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), also known as human herpesvirus-1 (HHV-1). This is why the condition is also known as oral herpes.

Types

• Though most cases of cold sores are caused by HSV-1, the condition can also be caused by oral infection with HSV-2, the virus that causes genital herpes, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Identification

• Like other herpetic conditions (genital herpes, chickenpox, shingles), cold sores cause a red rash with blisters that may be painful or itchy.

Features

• The herpes simplex viruses cannot be cleared from a person's system, which is why cold sores can continue to intermittently affect a person throughout her life, just as is the case with genital herpes.

Treatment

• Although cold sores generally clear up on their own, topical agents such as and benzyl alcohol can be used to relieve discomfort at the site of an outbreak. As in the case of recurrent genital herpes, doctors may recommend people with frequent cold sores go on daily antiviral medications to help lower the number of outbreaks, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Prevention

• As with genital herpes infection, you should avoid contact with the sores of a person suffering an outbreak. This includes sharing items that have touched that person's sores, according to the Mayo Clinic.