Dr Girl/Dr Dejour Q&A
Dear Dr Dejour,
I have been getting these funny lumpy scab things around my mouth. My friend said they are cold sores...they are itchy and hurt. What causes them and how do I get rid of them?
Signed Scabby.
Dear Scabby-One,
Sounds like cold sores. Cold sores are due to a virus with the infamous name of herpes. There are two types, one with a predilection for around the mouth (like yours) and the other for the genitals. They are transmitted by direct contact, usually the hands (can be spread by kissing). It's important therefore to wash your hands and avoid touching your face if you have a cold sore.
There are two types of treatment. One type specifically attacks the virus and the other prevents super infection (bacteria can set up in the mucky base of the ulcer) and dries out the lesion speeding up the healing. Keeping your lips in good condition (avoid sunburn and chapping) will make recurrence less likely. Your local chemist will be able to give you advice and you do not need a prescription. The pharmacist will also be able to confirm that it is a cold sore.
Hang in there, they are just one of those things that will go away in time.
Dr Dejour.
I have been getting these funny lumpy scab things around my mouth. My friend said they are cold sores...they are itchy and hurt. What causes them and how do I get rid of them?
Signed Scabby.
Dear Scabby-One,
Sounds like cold sores. Cold sores are due to a virus with the infamous name of herpes. There are two types, one with a predilection for around the mouth (like yours) and the other for the genitals. They are transmitted by direct contact, usually the hands (can be spread by kissing). It's important therefore to wash your hands and avoid touching your face if you have a cold sore.
There are two types of treatment. One type specifically attacks the virus and the other prevents super infection (bacteria can set up in the mucky base of the ulcer) and dries out the lesion speeding up the healing. Keeping your lips in good condition (avoid sunburn and chapping) will make recurrence less likely. Your local chemist will be able to give you advice and you do not need a prescription. The pharmacist will also be able to confirm that it is a cold sore.
Hang in there, they are just one of those things that will go away in time.
Dr Dejour.
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