Can anyone tell me what causes cold sores and how do you get rid of them?

Cold sores: Cold sores are herpes simplex virus 1. They enter body through a break in the skin when a person comes into contact with an infected person. Avoid kissing anyone with cold sores , sharing utensils , razors, drinking from water fountains ,sharing cups , straws to avoid contracting cold sores. Acyclovir cream , otc creams reduce pain. Oral Vatrex and Famvir (famciclovir) target the virus by prescription.

Cold sore virus: Herpes Simplex Virus type I causes cold sores. There is no cure for cold sores but they can be controlled with anti-viral medications like acyclovir and valcyclovir.

Herpes simplex virus: Usually hsv type 1. Once acquired, usually as a child, it is retained for life. Most people have it without any symptoms. Some get "cold sores" occasionally, some frequently. An attack may occur without obvious cause. Fever may trigger it. The most common cause is sun exposure when not used to it. Emotional stress is not a likely trigger. Treat with valacyclovir 2 G (2 pills) at the first tingling