Many people are not aware that Cold Sores & Fever Blisters are caused by a specific form of the herpes virus.  That's why Cold Sores, Fever Blisters and Oral Herpes are all the same.

Oral Herpes is usually caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1), and is characterized by sores (commonly called cold sores or fever blisters) on or around the mouth.  Research has shown that 80% to 90% of Americans are infected with HSV-1, and has determined that outbreaks are usually triggered by stress, illnesses like colds and flu, excessive sun exposure, hormonal changes, and immune system deficiencies.

However, only about 30% of the infected people show the symptoms of an oral herpes infection from time to time. The rest carries the virus and can transmit it, but show no symptoms at all.

 An outbreak of oral herpes usually begins with symptoms that include a tingling sensation, dryness, burning, and/or itching at the site of the impending cold sore.

Within one to two days, a group of tiny blisters form, then enlarge to create one large, open sort. Two or three days later, a scab forms on the sore and the wound begins to heal. Once healing is complete, the scab falls off, usually seven to ten days after the first symptoms were revealed.

Oral herpes is highly contagious during breakout phases, and most scientists assume that it is contagious even when there is no sign of the virus. Children often contract oral herpes through contact with parents, siblings, or close relatives who have contagious cold sores or fever blisters.

Please check also our video section to get more useful information on herpes simplex infections.