<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nYou’re likely familiar with the cause of these annoying blisters: a type of virus known as herpes simplex. This virus is highly contagious and is typically spread through direct contact with an infected person’s saliva or fluid from a cold sore. Additionally, it can be spread through kissing or sharing items such as eating utensils, towels, or razors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stress triggers can also lead to outbreaks, when the immune system is weakened. During this time, the virus may become active and cause new sores to form. Cold sores are most contagious when they’re in their blister stage and oozing fluid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Health Tip:<\/strong> Once the sore has formed a scab, it’s no longer considered contagious as long as you practice good hygiene habits and don’t come into contact with any open wounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>Symptoms of Cold Sores<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nSymptoms of a cold sore typically include redness and swelling in the affected area, followed by tingling or burning sensations. Other characteristics may include itching or pain, blister-like sores (which may burst and ooze fluid), crusting over of the sores as they heal, swollen lymph nodes nearby, and fever or tiredness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Immunity levels and taking preventative measures can help reduce the risk of spreading cold sores to others. Symptoms usually last for 7-10 days before healing begins, but it is important to be aware that the virus is most contagious when blisters are present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>When Is a Cold Sore Most Contagious<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nWhen you have blisters, it’s highly infectious. Cold sores are most contagious when the blister is present and open. During this time, it’s important to take extra precautions to avoid contact with other people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Washing your hands frequently<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Avoiding sharing items with others<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Not touching the sore or any other parts of the face<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Additionally, reducing stress can help decrease outbreaks and lessen contagion potential. It’s also important to avoid kissing or engaging in any kind of intimate contact until after the cold sore has healed completely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Even then, it is still possible for a person carrying HSV-1 virus to pass it on without showing any signs or symptoms of a cold sore outbreak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Treatments for Cold Sores<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nTreating cold sores can help reduce the duration of an outbreak and minimize discomfort. In order to do this, there are various methods including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n