The Difference Between Herpes and Cold Sores

Herpes and cold sores are two conditions that are often confused with each other. They are both caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), but they manifest in different ways and affect different areas of the body. This article will delve into the differences and similarities between these two conditions, their symptoms, transmission methods, and treatments.

The Herpes Simplex Virus

The herpes simplex virus, also known as HSV, is a viral infection that causes genital and oral herpes.

Many people live with asymptomatic HSV, which means they have the virus without ever having an outbreak or active episode of herpes.

Others might experience occasional episodes of small, fluid-filled blisters or sores.

These blisters most commonly appear on the genitals or mouth and lips, but they can also show up on hands or fingers and other parts of your body.

HSV can be sexually transmitted, but the virus can also be transmitted in other ways.

What is Herpes?

Herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause sores on the genitals, anus, or thighs.

It is most commonly caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).

However, it’s important to note that genital herpes can also be caused by HSV-1, especially as the virus can be passed from the mouth to the genitals through oral sex.

Herpes can cause more serious health complications, such as meningitis.

The symptoms of herpes can vary based on the location of the outbreak and whether HSV-1 or HSV-2 is involved.

Symptoms may include painful blisters, ulcers, and discharge around the genitals, anus, or mouth.

There is no cure for herpes, but antiviral medication can ease symptoms and lower the risk of infecting others.

What are Cold Sores?

Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are small, fluid-filled blisters that form on the lips or around the mouth.

They are typically caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1).

Cold sores are very common, with close to 70% of people under the age of 50 having been infected with HSV-1.

Cold sores usually form on the outside of your mouth or lips, but can also sometimes affect the skin of the face.

Before HSV-1 brings on a cold sore, there may be tingling, itching, or burning.

One or more fluid-filled cold sore blisters may form, which typically go from painful blisters to oozing sores with crusting lasting 7 to 10 days.

Transmission of Herpes and Cold Sores

Both herpes and cold sores are highly contagious and incurable. The HSV-1 virus that causes cold sores can be passed from person to person through kissing, touching, or sharing items that touch the mouth area. Most infections start in childhood, and most infections do not cause any symptoms.

Treatment of Herpes and Cold Sores

While HSV-1 and HSV-2 are incurable infections, there are treatments available to help manage symptoms and reduce recurrence. Prescription medications can help reduce symptoms and recurrence. Over-the-counter medications that numb the cold sores, or placing ice on cold sores, can help relieve the symptoms.

Cold Sores vs Canker Sores

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues in your mouth or at the base of your gums.

Unlike cold sores, canker sores don’t occur on the surface of your lips and they aren’t contagious.

They can be painful and can make eating and talking difficult.

While both canker sores and cold sores appear in or around the mouth, they have different causes and symptoms.

Canker sores occur only in the soft tissues of the mouth, such as on your gums or inside your cheeks.

They can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury to the inside of your mouth and vitamin deficiencies.

Cold sores form on and around your lips, although in some cases they can also form inside your mouth.

They are caused by the herpes simplex virus and are highly contagious.