HSV-1 is commonly known as cold sores. Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are contagious and are usually transmitted to others through kissing. More than half of the population in the United States has HSV-1. Most people are infected with HSV-1 during childhood from a non-sexual kiss from a relative or friend who has kissed them during an active outbreak of oral HSV-1. You need only come into contact with a cold sore once to contract HSV-1.
Cold sore symptoms range from mild to severe, including itching, burning, and pain. Laughing causes the lips to stretch and can lead to blisters cracking and oozing. Certain foods, such as citrus fruits and hot spices, can intensify the sting of cold sores. A headache might be part of the picture.
Cold sores from the mouth can also be transferred to the genitals and vice versa during sexual acts. Once blisters appear, it can take a couple of weeks to scab over and heal.
HSV-1 can also be transferred to the eyes by touching your eyes with contaminated fingers or by someone else when kissing or hugging, allowing the cold sore to come into contact with their eye. Herpes infections of the eye have all the usual symptoms and can lead to blindness.
It is possible to have an oral HSV-2 (genital herpes) outbreak inside and around the mouth. Oral genital herpes is not all that common. It often appears on the roof of the mouth. However, so do Canker sores, so it's vital to get a diagnosis if you have recurring symptoms in your mouth. HSV-2 can also mimic Canker sores on the tongue, cheek, or gums.
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