Herpes, or «cold sores» on the lips — information about the disease and treatment from WHO

Painful blisters on the lips are a manifestation of a herpes virus infection. There are two types, in this case we are dealing with the first — oral, and the second — genital, is transmitted sexually. We will talk about it another time.

How is herpes transmitted? The herpes simplex virus type one is transmitted through direct contact. For example, during kisses, shared food consumption, using common dishes and hygiene items. Most people get sick in childhood.

Kisses are pleasant and we do not call for giving them up, herpes is definitely not worth it. But before you kiss someone, make sure that your partner does not have any rashes on the lips. And remember…

How to cure herpes? Not at all. This is an infection that remains in the body for life, but there are drugs that are effective during exacerbations.

How common is the disease? You are far from alone with this problem. According to WHO data, around the world, about 3.7 billion people under the age of 50 are infected with the herpes type one virus, which is 67% of the Earth’s population!

How does herpes manifest? Most of the time, the infection is asymptomatic and the person does not even suspect that he is a carrier of the virus. With a weakened immune system, for example, acute respiratory infections or other infections, herpes «wakes up» and turns into an active form. The virus multiplies in the mucous membranes of the lips, causing tingling, itching and pain. By the way, we have an article on cold prevention.

The process ends with the appearance of characteristic painful «blisters». Over time, they burst, become covered with a crust and fall off. During the appearance of blisters, a person most actively spreads the infection around.

How to protect yourself from herpes? Try to avoid physical contact with people who have rashes on their lips. Do not use common dishes and personal hygiene items with strangers. Wear a condom before having sex with new partners, this reduces the risk of infection with many diseases, including herpes.

How to treat the active form of herpes according to WHO recommendations? There are special antiviral drugs with proven effectiveness — acyclovir, famciclovir and valacyclovir. They bind to the DNA of the herpes virus and disrupt its functions. The multiplication of herpes and the infection of new cells slows down. These drugs reduce the duration of the active phase of the disease and speed up the return of an aesthetic appearance to your face.

Perhaps the biggest problem with herpes is psychological. A person thinks that his new appearance flaw is too serious and everyone around him pays attention to it. This significantly complicates communication with other people. In fact, everyone understands this problem, realizes that it is temporary and does not draw any conclusions because of a few blisters on the lip. Be confident in yourself and love the reflection in the mirror, and herpes will soon pass.