Variations between Canker Sores and Cold Sores

The main reason why most people are mislead between cold sores and canker sores is because both conditions develop by the presence of fluid-filled blisters in or around the mouth. Nevertheless, cold sores normally take place in or throughout the lips when canker sores usually develop under the tongue, on the soft palate and the internal portion of the lips and cheeks. Both disorders can be identified in accordance with its causes and indications as well.

Causes

Fever blisters are caused by a virus strain called herpes virus type 1 or HSV-1, although this is not the identical virus that triggers genital herpes, because that is herpes simplex virus type 2 or HSV-2. Then again, the working procedure for both pathogens is almost similar. These pathogen strains typically impact an individual in their childhood years and when infected, the herpes simplex virus stays deep inside the body’s neurological system. These viruses will stay inactive for some time until activated by certain conditions or factors. These include stress, vulnerable immune system and too much contact with sunlight. The main reason for the progression of canker sores, on the other hand, remains unidentified. These canker sores are usually noticed in the form of localized irritation or ulcers. The appearance of canker sores can be activated as a result of vitamin deficiency, sleep deficiency and stress.

Transmission

Herpes simplex virus type 1 is very contagious which could be easily spread from one infected person to another by means of saliva. A cold sore problem is also known as the kissing disorder, as it could also be passed on by kissing a person contaminated by the virus. Canker sores, however, are not transmittable as the affliction is not caused by any kind of virus.

Treatment Method

No permanent treatment methods are intended for cold sore ailments. HSV is deeply planted within the spinal cord, in an area where no medication will be able to reach it. This makes it difficult to get rid of the infection or the virus itself. Nevertheless, it is possible to ease the indications of the condition by means of cold sore home remedies and medications. These over the counter medicines consist of Carmex, Orajel, Orabase, Abreva, Anbensol and Zilactin. All these are helpful in relieving irritation and pain because of the illness. Lysine and vitamin C supplements are also useful against cold sores or fever blisters.

Canker sores can be quite painful, especially if there are lots of large sores. When the crust covering the sores started cracking, this may lead to microbe infections. Therefore, it is recommended to rinse the mouth by using an anti-bacterial mouthwash in order to prevent further infection. Keeping the area affected damp using petroleum jelly can help speed up the process of recovery of the problem. Aphthasol, on the other hand, is the only medicine authorized by the FDA for canker sores. Besides this, you may also use over-the-counter gels to cure the indicators of the condition.

Both illnesses have the tendency to reoccur. Nonetheless, maintaining proper oral hygiene can help prevent recurrence as well as the seriousness of episodes. As much as possible, you also need to avoid being in touch with sufferers in order to avoid the infection. To find out more regarding cold sores and canker sores, it would be advisable to consult your doctor.