COLD SORE Meaning and
Definition
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A cold sore is a common and contagious viral infection that typically appears as a small, painful, fluid-filled blister or cluster of blisters on or around the lips, mouth, or nose. These blisters are often accompanied by redness, swelling, itching, and a tingling sensation in the affected area.
Cold sores are primarily caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), although in rare cases, they can also be caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 is highly contagious and can be easily transmitted through direct contact with an active cold sore or through saliva, making it a common viral infection.
The initial outbreak of a cold sore is usually the most severe, characterized by flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. After the blisters burst, they form scabs and crusts, which eventually heal within a couple of weeks. However, cold sores tend to recur periodically due to the virus staying dormant in the body and reactivating during times of stress, hormonal changes, fatigue, or exposure to triggers like sun exposure and certain foods.
Treatment for cold sores typically involves over-the-counter antiviral creams, ointments, or oral medication that can help to alleviate symptoms and speed up the healing process. It is also important to practice good hygiene, avoid touching or picking at the sores, and refrain from kissing or sharing personal items with others to prevent the virus from spreading.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for COLD SORE
- xold sore
- vold sore
- fold sore
- dold sore
- cild sore
- ckld sore
- clld sore
- cpld sore
- c0ld sore
- c9ld sore
- cokd sore
- copd sore
- cood sore
- cols sore
- colx sore
- colc sore
- colf sore
- colr sore
- cole sore
Etymology of COLD SORE
The word "cold sore" has a clear etymology.
"Cold" in this context does not refer to a low temperature, but rather to an illness caused by a virus, namely the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, typically occur around the mouth and are often triggered by exposure to cold temperatures or fever. The term "cold" in "cold sore" is derived from the Old English word "cald", which means "cold" or "cool". In this case, it refers to the cold-like symptoms often associated with viral infections.
The word "sore" refers to a lesion or tender spot on the skin. It comes from the Old English word "sār", which means "painful" or "sore".
Similar spelling words for COLD SORE
- cold spell,
- cold cream,
- cold cash,
- coldcream,
- cold snap,
- coolidge,
- colledge,
- cold sober,
- cold sweat,
- cold cereal,
- cold cuts,
- cold-cream,
- cold storage.
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