Then there's type 2, which leads to genital herpes. Both type 2 and type 1 are bad because they can easily spread the virus to other parts of your body, such as the genital area.
The one that causes cold sores, herpes simplex virus type 1, is highly contagious. You can easily spread the virus through physical contact, and even through indirect contact.
You can get the virus just by sharing a drinking glass with someone who is already infected, an example of indirect contact.
Once the virus is in your system, it will never leave. It will just stay dormant in your cells until it is woken up by certain triggers.
Since each person is unique, cold sores don't affect everyone in quite the same way. What triggers cold sores in you may not trigger it in someone else. It's a very good idea to recognize what triggers cold sores in you so that you can keep the virus under wraps.
Certain foods might trigger cold sores. So can overexposure to cold, wind, and sun. So can stress and illness, as well as sharing your personal hygienic items. These are common triggers for outbreaks.
If sunlight is one of your triggers, you can try staying out of the sun for an extended period each day. If it's stress, learn how to get a handle on stress and find ways to relax.
You could also strengthen your immune system by getting enough rest and taking a supplement of vitamin C. You can also eat less foods that contain arginine.
Don't let your spouse share toothbrushes, cups, towels, or lip balm if you know they get cold sores. You can also change your toothbrush after you have recovered from a cold sore because some of the virus can still be stuck in your toothbrush and will make the virus reoccur.
You really need to think about what causes cold sores and know what triggers outbreaks in yourself. When you recognize the patterns, you will be in a good position to reduce the severity and frequency of the outbreaks.
Once you know how to treat your cold sores and what triggers them, you will finally be in control of your life instead of being at the virus' mercy all the time.
