"Blisters on the lips, please stay away"... Why is it contagious?
Stress, fatigue, menstruation, UV rays... What causes blisters?
The reason for blister formation is due to a disease called herpes simplex. According to data from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, herpes simplex is a disease that repeatedly causes blisters on the skin and is also called herpes. It is caused by the simple herpes virus (HSV). Typically, the lip area is infected by HSV type 1, while the genital area is infected by HSV type 2. The blisters of herpes simplex can be caused by various factors such as stress, fatigue, menstruation, strong ultraviolet rays, wounds, laser procedures, and cosmetic treatments, and they can recur.
The experienced person has a premonition that a blister will soon form... What are the symptoms?
Herpes simplex causes small blisters to repeatedly form in the same area. It mostly appears on the lower lip. Blisters can also develop on the genitals. Symptoms appear in stages. Before the lip blisters form, there may be itching, tingling, or burning sensations. Experienced individuals often have a premonition that "blisters are about to appear." Next, the skin becomes red and small blisters form in clusters. The blisters burst and become raw. Afterwards, a scab forms, and usually after 7 to 10 days, the scab falls off and symptoms improve.
Infection through 'contact' between people... latent infection that reactivates when tired
Simple herpes usually recurs about once a year on average, but individual differences are significant. The infection route is through skin contact or contact with secretions. The virus penetrates the skin and mucous membranes, travels along skin nerves, and ascends to nerve ganglia near the spinal cord, where it remains dormant. When tired or exposed to ultraviolet rays, the dormant virus reactivates, causing blisters on the skin. Before the blisters appear, the virus travels along nerves to the skin, stimulating the nerves and causing prodromal symptoms such as itching, tingling, or burning sensations.
Blisters on the lips or genitals... possible transmission during sexual intercourse
Simplex herpes has a high risk of transmission. According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, if blisters are present on the lips or genitals, they can be transmitted to a partner during sexual intercourse. Therefore, it is safest to avoid sexual activity not only when blisters are present but also for 1-2 days after they have healed. If a pregnant woman has blisters during labor, there is a possibility of transmission to the baby. In such cases, a cesarean section may be considered instead of normal delivery. However, during pregnancy, even if blisters are present, there is no need to worry excessively.
When experiencing early symptoms like itching or stinging... taking 'this medication' can prevent blisters
Before blisters appear on the skin, symptoms such as itching or tingling may occur. At this time, taking antiviral medication for two days can prevent blisters. People who experience frequent recurrences should consult a dermatologist and obtain a prescription in advance. Among simple herpes treatment medications, there are antiviral drugs that can be taken three times a day or once a day. However, not all simple herpes can be treated with medication. Keeping the blisters clean and dry, and managing them well, can sometimes lead to natural healing within 1 to 2 weeks.
Blisters, how can they be prevented?... Avoid direct contact with skin or secretions.
The transmission of viruses occurs through direct contact between skin and skin or contact with secretions. Washing hands thoroughly and avoiding contact with affected areas or secretions can prevent transmission. Genital herpes can be transmitted less frequently with condom use. There is currently no vaccine to prevent herpes simplex virus infection. Preventing recurrences is also impossible. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is advisable to maintain personal hygiene, such as handwashing, and avoid risk factors.
