Term
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Cold sores (fever blisters) are caused by:
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Where are they most commonly found
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Definition
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Herpes simplex type 1 virus
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Found at junction of the mucous membrane & skin of the lips or nostrils
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Term
List some Predisposing factors
of cold sores |
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Definition
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Systemic illness that depress the immune system
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Flu; Menstration; Fatigue
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Extreme physical stress
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Sun & Wind exposure
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Chemotherapy & Radiation therapy
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Term
List common S/S of
Cold Sores (fever blisters) |
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Definition
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Intense pain
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Fever
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Increased Salivation
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Mouth odor
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Swollen neck glands
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Term
| Flare-up of the cold sores is preceded by a prodrome of: |
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Definition
Burning
Itching
Numbness where lesion develops
First become visable as small, red papules that develop into fluid filled vesicles (blisters) 1-3mm in diameter |
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Term
The next 10-14 days crust develops over the top of many coalesced, burst vesicles; the base is erythematous |
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Definition
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The liquid from the vesicles contains live virus that is contagious if transferred by direct contact (kissing)
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If pus develops in the vesicles or under the crust of a cold sore, a 2ndary bacterial infection could be present
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May need antibiotic therapy see MD
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