Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus, which is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact with an infected person or object. Once the virus enters the body, it remains dormant in the nerve cells and can reactivate due to various triggers, including:
- Stress
- Illness or a weakened immune system
- Hormonal changes
- Sun exposure
- Fatigue
During an outbreak, blisters form, often accompanied by itching, burning, or tingling sensations. These blisters eventually burst, scab over, and heal within one to two weeks. While the virus cannot be cured, effective treatments can significantly reduce symptoms and frequency of outbreaks.
