Learning the Key Stages of Cold Sores
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The active stages of cold sores or Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1) are divided into five key parts. The most common stage
of the cold sore virus is a non-active stage, the dormant stage. Numerous people carrying the herpes virus will never
experience the active stages and will not be aware that they are infected. In these cases a blood test would be the only way
to tell if a person is infected. The active stages will typically follow a pattern but the virus does not manifest the same in
every person. Being aware of the stages during your outbreak will help in determining a treatment plan.
PRODROMAL PHASE is the pre-physical symptom stage. High levels of stress or a weakened immune system allow the
herpes virus to move to the surface. A slight tingle can be often felt in the soon to be infected area. Dryness or burning may
sometimes be an indicator of a coming outbreak. Applying ice at this stage has provided many with relief and minimizing
the size of the final outbreak area.
INFLAMMATION is indicated by little red bumps or a red swelling area. Inflammation is the first visible stage of the
outbreak. This will be the start of the painful stages of the outbreak. Some people have also experienced headaches, fever
and swollen glands during the second and following phases. Continue to apply ice or your medication of choice to help
reduce the duration of the outbreak.
OPEN SORE is the most contagious of the five stages. You should exercise extreme caution when touching your sore to
wash your hands thoroughly. Ensure to never touch your eye after touching your cold sore to minimize the risk of
spreading the infection and causing eye damage. Kissing other people should be avoided to stop the spreading of the herpes
virus to others. The open sore is even more painful, especially while eating. The bumps or pimples will form a solid mass
and will seep a clear fluid.
SCABS will form indicating the beginning of the end of this episode. The scab will be allow for new skin to form and the
damaged cells replaced. Cracking of the scab will happen as it dries out, making it painful to talk and eat at times. The
wound will be itchy, a good indication that it is healing. You are still contagious at this point, so take precautions to reduce
the risk of exposing others.
FINAL HEALING is when the scab falls off for the final time. The area will still be red and slightly sore for up to two
weeks. Ice can provide some relief at this phase if needed, but may actually lessen the speed of healing.
Hopefully you will be able to better understand the painful steps to your cold sore. A plan of attack will better allow
you to deal with your outbreak. As with most medical conditions, not all treatments work for all people.