Those pesky little painful bumps on your lips are called cold sores, and they're usually caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Although HSV-1 and HSV-2 are similar viruses, they're not the same. Cold sores are usually caused by HSV-1, and genital herpes is usually caused by HSV-2.

Cold sores are small, fluid-filled blisters that develop on the lips, mouth, or nose. They’re usually caused by HSV-1 and are contagious. They can be passed from person to person through kissing or other close contact with the infected area. Cold sores usually heal in two to four weeks without leaving a scar.

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause sores on the genitals. It’s usually caused by HSV-2, but can be caused by HSV-1 if it’s spread through sexual contact. Genital herpes is contagious and can be passed from person to person through sexual contact. Genital herpes usually doesn’t leave a scar.

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What Are Cold Sores?

Cold sores are small, fluid-filled blisters that form on or around the lips, nose, or chin. Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV type 1 usually causes cold sores.

Cold sores usually go through four stages:

Stage 1: A tingling or burning feeling around your lips.

Stage 2: Small fluid-filled blisters form.

Stage 3: The blisters break open and turn into a sore.

Stage 4: The sore heals and goes away.

Cold sores can last for a few days to two weeks.

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Can You Have Cold Sores Without Having Herpes?

It is possible to have cold sores without having herpes, but it is not common. Cold sores are usually caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which is a type of herpes virus.

Cold sores without herpes are most likely caused by another virus, such as the varicella-zoster virus (which causes chickenpox and shingles) or the Epstein-Barr virus (which causes mono). But on the whole, most cold sores are caused by HSV.

Cold sores do not mean that you have herpes on your genitals, (HSV-2) however. HSV-2 is usually transmitted through sexual contact, and it can cause sores on your genitals, buttocks, or anus.

HSV-1, the virus that usually causes cold sores, is transmitted through saliva. It can be spread through kissing or sharing utensils, cups, or lip balm with someone who has HSV-1. It can also be spread through contact with contaminated surfaces, such as doorknobs, keyboards, or towels.

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What Treatments Help With Cold Sores?

There are many treatments that help with cold sores. Some of these treatments include:

• Applying a topical cream or ointment to the sore.
• Taking antiviral medication.
• Applying a lip balm or cream to soothe the sore.
• Avoiding triggers, such as stress, sunlight, and cold weather.
  

The treatment regimen for cold sores varies from person to person. Some people only require occasional treatment, while others need daily treatment.

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Can You Get Cold Sores From Having Sex?

There is no definitive answer to this question as the transmission of the herpes simplex virus (HSV) that causes cold sores is not well understood. However, it is possible that HSV could be transmitted through sexual contact, although the risk is thought to be low. If you have cold sores and are sexually active, you should abstain from sexual activity until the sores have completely healed.

HSV-1 is the most common type of HSV and is typically associated with oral herpes, or cold sores, around the mouth. HSV-2 is less common and is typically associated with genital herpes. However, either type of HSV can infect either the mouth or genitals.

When HSV is present on the surface of the skin of an infected person, it can be passed on to another person through close contact. This includes kissing, oral sex, and anal or vaginal sex.

The risk of HSV transmission from an infected person to a sexual partner is thought to be low, but it is still possible. The risk may be higher if there are active sores present at the time of sexual contact.

If you have cold sores and are sexually active, you should use a condom or dental dam every time you have sex. This will help to reduce the risk of HSV transmission.

You should also avoid kissing anyone if you have active cold sores. It is also a good idea to avoid sharing cups, utensils, or towels with someone who has cold sores.

If you think you may have been exposed to HSV, you should see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can perform a test to see if you have the virus. There is no cure for HSV.