Cold Sores (Fever Blisters)
Causes
Primarily caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1); HSV-2 can sometimes cause cold sores through oral-genital contact.
Highly contagious through:
Direct contact: Kissing, sharing drinks, utensils, or food.
Indirect contact: Towels, lip balm, or cutlery contaminated with the virus.
Self-infection (autoinoculation): Touching a cold sore and then other body parts, like eyes or genitals.
Symptoms & Stages
Tingling/itching: 1–2 days before a sore appears.
Blister formation: Small fluid-filled blisters near lips, nose, or gums.
Blister rupture: Sores break open; most contagious stage.
Scabbing: Crust forms, eventually falls off during healing.
Typical outbreak: 7–10 days.
The virus remains dormant and may reactivate.
Triggers for Outbreaks
Stress (emotional or physical)
Sunlight/UV exposure
Hormonal shifts (menstruation, pregnancy)
Illnesses (colds, fevers)
Weakened immune system
Treatment Options
Antiviral pills: Acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir.
Topical antiviral creams: Reduce symptoms and spread.
Pain relief: OTC medications or numbing creams.
Moisturizing balms: Reduce dryness and discomfort.
Prevention Tips
Avoid kissing or close contact during outbreaks.
Don’t share personal items (lip balms, utensils, towels).
Use lip sunscreen if sun triggers outbreaks.
Support immunity via diet, exercise, and stress management.
See a doctor if:
Outbreaks are frequent or painful.
OTC remedies don’t help.
Sores spread beyond the lips or grow significantly.
Pain interferes with eating, drinking, or speaking.
You have a weakened immune system.
Alzheimer’s and Oral Health Connection
Traditional Risk Factors
Age, family history, untreated depression, cardiovascular conditions, lifestyle factors.
Recent Findings
Alzheimer’s may have an infectious component, particularly linked to gum disease.
P. gingivalis bacteria (from gum disease) produces gingipains—toxic enzymes linked to Alzheimer’s-related proteins tau and ubiquitin.
Toxic gingipains were found in brains of people with and without diagnosed Alzheimer’s, suggesting early infection could precede cognitive decline rather than being a consequence of it.
Research & Treatments
Mice studies show that compounds like COR388 targeting P. gingivalis can reduce amyloid-beta production and neuroinflammation.
While human benefits are still unproven, this research opens a new avenue for potential Alzheimer’s treatments.
