When the HSV-1 Virus first enters the body, it causes a person to become sick, with symptoms such as fever, an extremely sore throat, a painful mouth/gums, swollen lymph nodes and tiredness. Surprisingly, the first infection often has no cold sore present, so patients don't know what's going on. Usually the first infection is the worst, as the body has no defenses yet. Also, the sore throat makes it painful to swallow, and babies can suffer from dehydration and even die due to inability to swallow.
After the initial infection, the virus retreats to a cluster of nerve cells called the ganglion (the orange shown in diagram) near the temples and goes dormant. It stays this way for any amount of time - 6% of infected people recieve a cold sore less than two weeks after the primary infection ends, and about two thirds never have cold sores again, despite still having the virus.
Fact: Cold Sores always reappear in the same area
Fact: Cold Sores always reappear in the same area
Having a cold sore comes in "stages." The first stage is a tingling, or itching sensation on the lips, which can last 1-2 days, and possible swelling. If a person has experienced them before, they should recognise the sore and start taking preventative measures.
The second stage involves blisters forming on the face at the location of the first infection, lasting for 1-3 days. These blisters are filled with millions of virus particles. Lots of white blood cells try to fight off the sores, causing more inflammation.
The third stage is the shortest but most painful and contagious stage, as the blisters have broken and infected fluid is seeping out of the ulcer created for up to 30 hours. Caution must be taken in order to stop the virus infecting another person.
The second last stage involves the area scabbing up for about 3 days. This can be painful for some, as lips can crack open and hurt. For others, it doesn't hurt at all. It is also itchy and heated.
The last stage involves the scabs disappearing. There may be some residual swelling/itching, although it is mostly fine. Cold sores don't leave scars unless picked or popped during the process.
After this cycle, the virus travels back up the nerve cells into the ganglion, and waits for another trigger to let it create another cold sore, such as stress, illness, sunlight and hormonal changes.
After this cycle, the virus travels back up the nerve cells into the ganglion, and waits for another trigger to let it create another cold sore, such as stress, illness, sunlight and hormonal changes.