Difference between revisions of "Prevent Cold Sores"

Cold sores are painful blister-like sores that usually appear around the lips. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (predominantly the type 1 variety, but also type 2 in some cases), which can be transmitted from one person to another under certain circumstances. Herpes infections of the mouth are very common in the United States, with up to 40% of young adults testing positive for the virus, regardless of whether or not they show symptoms.<ref name="rf1">http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/557162</ref> Herpes infections are considered incurable and it's not always possible to prevent an outbreak of cold sores, so reducing your risk of exposure in the first place is your best bet. If you have a history of cold sores, then practice the following strategies to help prevent them from reoccurring.  

Cold sores are painful blister-like sores that usually appear around the lips. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (predominantly the type 1 variety, but also type 2 in some cases), which can be transmitted from one person to another under certain circumstances. Herpes infections of the mouth are very common in the United States, with up to 40% of young adults testing positive for the virus, regardless of whether or not they show symptoms.<ref name="rf1">http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/557162</ref> Herpes infections are considered incurable and it's not always possible to prevent an outbreak of cold sores, so reducing your risk of exposure in the first place is your best bet. If you have a history of cold sores, then practice the following strategies to help prevent them from reoccurring.  

== Steps ==

== Steps ==