The Difference Between Cold Sores And Herpes
There is a lot of confusion as to whether or not cold sores and herpes are the same thing. Some folks seem to think that if they have a cold sore, that they have a sexually transmitted disease. This is not the case. Cold sore and herpes are both caused by the same virus, but each affliction is caused by a different type of the virus.
Is A Cold Sore Herpes?
There are two different types of the herpes simplex virus. Type one of the virus causes cold sores. Type two of the herpes simplex virus is known for causing the STD herpes. Cold sores and herpes are not the same thing, even if they are caused by the same virus. While cold sores and herpes do have the same blister like appearance, just because you have a cold sore does not mean that you have herpes.
How to Know Which Type of The Virus You Have
It is possible to have a herpes outbreak on your lip and mouth area, just like a cold sore. The only way to be able to tell if the cold sore on your lip is caused by type two of the herpes simplex virus is to visit your doctor before the blister bursts. The doctor will take fluid samples from the inside of the cold sore and can let you know which type of the virus you have. A large percent of the population already has the herpes simplex virus and are not aware of it. Type one of the virus, the one that causes cold sores, can lay dormant in an individual their entire life. Most people contract this virus as children. Do not freak out just because you have a cold sore. It more than likely is the same virus that most everyone else has. If you feel you have been at risk for herpes or any other STD, you might consider visiting your doctor.