Typically cold sores will appear on or around your lips after the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) becomes active in the trigeminal ganglion and travels back up the nerve to the skin.
However, one of the complications of cold sores is that they can spread to other parts of the body. When this occurs it is known as secondary infection.
Where else can cold sores develop?
If the skin is broken anywhere on your body, for example if you suffer from eczema, another similar skin condition, or have a cut or graze, HSV-1 could infect the wound.
Some people suffer sores and blisters on their fingers or thumbs, usually on the tips. This condition is called Herpetic whitlow and can be very painful.
An unpleasant infection could also develop on your eyelids. This is called herpetic keratoconjunctivitis and causes inflammation and sores to appear on this sensitive eye area.
How can you reduce your risk of suffering these conditions?
The best way to reduce your risk of suffering discomfort due to the spread of the herpes simplex virus is to avoid touching your cold sores without immediately washing your hands afterwards.
As well as this, by applying Herstat's clinically proven ointment, you could significantly reduce the length of your outbreak, and therefore spend less time at risk of spreading the virus to other parts of your body. You can read more about the product by clicking here.
In addition, some of our customers have reported that after applying Herstat to other skin ailments, such as spots or cuts, the condition healed faster than on previous occasions*.
*Always visit your GP for a correct diagnosis and professional advice beforehand.
Photo © Glen via Flickr, under Creative Commons Licence
