COLD SORE TREATMENT RENO, NV
A "cold sore" or "fever blister" is a common condition that many people encounter. It is caused by the herpes virus or recurrent herpes labialis, and it generally affects the lips. However, it can be passed to the genital area as well.
Cold sores are generally caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). However, herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) can also lead to the condition.
Cold sores emerge as a collection of tiny yellow-pink blisters on the upper layer of the skin that initially tingle, then scab, and heal. They can be recurrent and can be caused due to stress, trauma, sickness, use of steroids, and constant sun exposure. The condition heals fast if the patient receives treatment in the initial stages of the outbreak by putting the virus into remission.
At West Reno Dental, our Reno, NV dentist offers laser technology and a host of state-of-the-art dental treatments to treat cold sores and help our patients maintain optimum oral health.
SYMPTOMS OF COLD SORES
When a patient gets a cold sore, he usually passes through the following stages:
Tingling and itching: Cold sores usually start as a feeling of itching, burning, or tingling near the lips before a tiny, aching spot appears, and blisters burst.
Blisters: Tiny blisters filled with fluid usually erupt along the lip borders or even around the nose, cheeks, or inside the mouth.
Oozing and crusting: If the blisters combine and burst, they may leave shallow open sores that ooze or bleed.
Though these are the typical stages of occurrence of the condition, its signs and symptoms may vary, depending on whether this is the patient's first outbreak of cold sores or a recurrence.
When cold sores occur the first time, you also might experience the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Painful gums
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Swollen lymph nodes
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR IF YOU HAVE A COLD SORE
It is important to visit your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- A weakened immune system
- Cold sores that don't heal even after two weeks
- Symptoms are severe and painful
- There are frequent re-occurrences of cold sores
- There is irritation in the patient's eyes
LASER COLD SORE TREATMENT
For the treatment of cold sores, our laser treatment procedure is very effective if it is during the initial stages when the cold sore symptoms emerge. Its repeated use has been shown to decrease the rate of future outbreaks.
The laser treatment includes the use of the diode laser, which breaks down the nerve cells of the virus to offer instant relief to the patient. Further, it also boosts collagen production, helping the patient heal faster.
