Cold sores and fever blisters are not uncommon. In fact, about 80% of people have or will have cold sores at some point. These are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which is a sexually transmitted disease passed through saliva. You can get it directly, by kissing, for example; or indirectly, by drinking from the same glass or using the same utensils. Once you have the virus, it typically lies dormant for extended periods and will flare up from time to time in the form of a sore cluster of sores on the face or eyes. Here are a few reasons dentists say you may experience a cold sore flareup on the face. 

3 Causes of Cold Sores 

1. Cold or Fever 

Probably the most common reason for cold sore flareups is an illness. A fever, a cold, the flu, and other infections weaken your immune system. When you’re healthy, your body’s natural defenses work to keep herpes and other dormant viruses at bay; but when your defense system is compromised, herpes can reactivate. This is why many people experience cold sores in the fall and winter, the same time many flu and cold viruses are going around.

2. Stress & Fatigue

Stress and sleep deprivation can take a toll on the body in numerous ways, including weakening your immune system. Similar to contracting a cold or flu virus or bacterial infection, experiencing significant or chronic stress or fatigue or other emotional distress can create chronic inflammation and suppress immune cells, making you more vulnerable to flareups.

3. Physical Issues

Physical injuries and irritation of the mouth and skin can also cause cold sores to crop up. For example, you may receive a treatment at the dentist that requires stretching the mouth open. If your skin is already dry and cracked, this can result in an abrasion. People with braces may experience abrasions if their mouth is caught on their gear, as well. Getting hit in the face or falling can also result in abrasions and stress to the skin, as can extremely cold weather.

If you’re a Cincinnati, OH, resident in need of dental care or treatment for a cold sore, turn to Dr. Robert N. Petrtyl, DDS. With over 30 years of experience, he’s one of the community’s most trusted dentists, providing comprehensive services from gum disease treatment and tooth extractions to teeth cleaning and cosmetic dentistry. Call (513) 554-4657 to speak with a friendly staff member to schedule an appointment with the dentist. Or, visit the website to learn more about their family dentistry services.