Major Research Findings

Cold sores are caused by Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), one of the most common human viruses in the Herpesviridae family. 3 HSV-1 is known to cause herpes labialis (cold sores) and keratitis (inflammation of the cornea). 3 HSV-1 infects most humans and remains lifelong in the body in latent form within the PNS. The virus can be reactivated by stress, immunosuppression, etc. and in some people, it then causes cold sores. Traditional treatments for HSV-1 infection include pharmaceutical drugs, such as acyclovir and docosonal, which are effective but have the potential to develop viral drug resistance. 3

Reasons for the Cause

Cold sores are caused by infection with Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). HSV-1 primarily infects the area around the lips and mouth, causing symptoms such as blisters and ulcers.

Common Causes

Stress

Stress is one of the factors that can trigger reactivation of HSV-1. Stress weakens the immune system, making it easier for dormant HSV-1 to reactivate.

Immunosuppression

Immunosuppression is another factor that can trigger HSV-1 reactivation. In immunosuppressed states, the immune system is weakened, making it unable to prevent HSV-1 infection or reactivation.

Fatigue

Fatigue can also trigger HSV-1 reactivation. Fatigue weakens the immune system, making it unable to prevent HSV-1 infection or reactivation.

Cold

Infections like colds can also trigger HSV-1 reactivation. Infections like colds weaken the immune system, making it unable to prevent HSV-1 infection or reactivation.

Sunburn

Sunburn can trigger HSV-1 reactivation. Sunburn damages the skin, making it easier for HSV-1 to infect or reactivate.

Hormonal Imbalance

Hormonal imbalance can also trigger HSV-1 reactivation. When hormonal balance is disrupted, the immune system is weakened, making it unable to prevent HSV-1 infection or reactivation.

Menstrual Cycle

A woman's menstrual cycle can also trigger HSV-1 reactivation. During the menstrual cycle, hormonal balance changes, and the immune system weakens, making it unable to prevent HSV-1 infection or reactivation.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy can also trigger HSV-1 reactivation. During pregnancy, hormonal balance changes, and the immune system weakens, making it unable to prevent HSV-1 infection or reactivation.

Countermeasures against the Cause

Stress Reduction

Reducing stress is important to prevent HSV-1 reactivation. To reduce stress, it is important to try relaxation methods such as yoga or meditation, and get enough sleep.

Improving Immune Function

Improving immune function is also important to prevent HSV-1 reactivation. To improve immune function, it is important to eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly.

Early Treatment

If you suspect an HSV-1 infection, it is important to seek medical attention early. Early treatment can prevent the worsening of symptoms and prevent HSV-1 reactivation.

Comparison between Studies

Commonalities in Research

Many studies have revealed that HSV-1 can lie dormant in nerve ganglia. Additionally, it is suggested that factors such as stress and immunosuppression can trigger HSV-1 reactivation, leading to herpes labialis.

Differences in Research

There are differences in detailed research findings depending on the study, including factors that trigger HSV-1 reactivation and the mechanisms of the immune response to HSV-1 infection. 3 For example, some studies have shown that plant extracts can inhibit HSV-1 growth, while other studies have not confirmed the effects of plant extracts.

Cautions Regarding Application in Daily Life

Cold sores are a common infection experienced by many people. However, HSV-1 infection can rarely become serious. Particularly, immunocompromised individuals and newborns are at higher risk of complications. If you suspect an HSV-1 infection, it is important to seek medical advice early.

Limitations of Current Research

Research on HSV-1 infection is still insufficient. Especially regarding the mechanisms of HSV-1 latency and reactivation, many mysteries remain. Furthermore, developing effective vaccines and treatment methods for HSV-1 is a future challenge.

Future Research Directions Needed

To further research on HSV-1 infection, the following research is needed: * Elucidating the mechanisms of HSV-1 latency and reactivation * Developing effective vaccines and treatment methods for HSV-1 * Developing methods for preventing and treating complications caused by HSV-1 infection * Elucidating the relationship between HSV-1 infection and other diseases

Conclusion

Cold sores are a common infection caused by HSV-1 infection. HSV-1 can lie dormant in nerve ganglia and can be reactivated by factors such as stress and immunosuppression. If you suspect an HSV-1 infection, it is important to seek medical advice early.