Tag

Cold Sores

All articles tagged with #cold sores

health7 months ago

Childhood Virus May Increase Alzheimer's Risk in Later Life

A study from 1997 suggests a potential link between herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1), common in childhood, and the development of Alzheimer's disease, especially in individuals with the ApoE-e4 gene. While most people with HSV-1 do not develop Alzheimer's, the virus's ability to infect the brain and cause inflammation may contribute to the disease in genetically predisposed individuals. More research is needed to confirm this connection and explore preventive strategies.

health7 months ago

Childhood Virus May Increase Alzheimer's Risk in Later Life

A study from 1997 suggests a potential link between herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1), common in childhood, and the development of Alzheimer's disease, especially in individuals with the ApoE-e4 gene. While most people with HSV-1 do not develop Alzheimer's, the virus's ability to infect the brain and cause inflammation may increase risk in genetically predisposed individuals. More research is needed to confirm this connection and explore preventive strategies.

health7 months ago

Viral Infections and Their Potential Role in Alzheimer's Disease

Research suggests that the herpes simplex virus type 1, which causes cold sores, may play a significant role in the development of Alzheimer's disease by reactivating in the brain and causing damage, especially in individuals with certain genetic risk factors. Preventative measures like vaccines and antiviral treatments could potentially reduce the risk of Alzheimer's.

health1 year ago

Lip Blemish Linked to Increased Dementia Risk

A Swedish study suggests that the herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), responsible for cold sores, may double the risk of developing dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. Researchers followed over 1,000 elderly Swedes for 15 years, finding those with HSV-1 were twice as likely to develop dementia. The virus may cause inflammation in the nervous system, potentially leading to neurodegeneration. However, experts caution that evidence is mixed, with some studies finding no link between HSV-1 and cognitive decline, and emphasize the need for further research.

health1 year ago

"Link Between Cold Sores and Dementia Risk Confirmed in New Study"

A study from Uppsala University suggests that individuals prone to cold sores may have double the risk of developing dementia later in life, possibly due to the herpes simplex virus triggering the creation of amyloid-beta plaques and tau in the brain. Between 50 and 80 percent of US adults are thought to have the virus, which stays dormant in the body and can be activated during times of low immune system, stress, or illness. The observational study, involving over 1,000 70-year-old Swedes, found that having the virus doubled the risk of dementia, aligning with previous findings. Dementia is a group of conditions associated with memory loss, language, and judgment, with Alzheimer's being the most common form.

health-and-wellness2 years ago

"Clever Trick to Vanish Cold Sores Quickly, Revealed by Doctor"

Dr. Michael, a popular TikTok doctor, shared a cost-effective trick to help cold sores disappear faster by using lysine capsules, which block the substance that fuels the herpes virus behind the sores. Lysine, an amino acid found in meat, fish, dairy, and eggs, can also be purchased in capsule form for $7.99 at CVS. Dr. Michael recommends taking no more than three 1000 milligram tablets per day, but advises those with chronic medical conditions to consult their doctor before taking any supplement. Other over-the-counter remedies include ibuprofen and prescription antiviral medications like acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir, as recommended by the CDC.

health2 years ago

Understanding and Treating Cold Sores: Expert Insights

Cold sores, caused by the herpes simplex virus, can be treated with over-the-counter medication, oral antiviral medication like valacyclovir, or intravenous antiviral medicine. Valacyclovir works by suppressing viral replication, making it harder for the virus to manifest into a cold sore. It can be taken when exposed to triggers or at the onset of prodromal symptoms. Leaving a cold sore untreated usually lasts about two weeks, but taking valacyclovir can shorten the duration by a few days. Cold sores are common and nothing to be ashamed of, and treatment can help regain confidence.

health2 years ago

Unraveling the Origins of Cold Sores: A Comprehensive Guide to Oral Herpes

Cold sores, also known as oral herpes, are caused by the reactivation of the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) in the body. Triggers for cold sore outbreaks include fever, UV exposure, stress, hormonal changes, immune system changes, and skin injuries. The virus is commonly spread through saliva, such as through kissing or sharing utensils, and most Americans are exposed to it during early childhood. It is estimated that 50 to 80 percent of adults in America have oral herpes. Despite the stigma associated with cold sores, they are incredibly prevalent, and individuals should not feel ashamed or isolated because of them.

health2 years ago

The Dangers of Kissing Babies on the Lips.

Kissing a newborn baby on the lips can cause the baby to die due to neonatal herpes, warns Nikki Jurcutz, an expert from infant care company Tiny Hearts Education. Herpes can cause shortness of breath, severe breathing problems, and even death in infants whose immune systems are not fully developed. Jurcutz suggests several precautions to minimize the risk of babies getting herpes, including not kissing the baby's face or hands, wearing a face mask to cover cold sores, and using hand sanitizer before holding the baby.

history2 years ago

Uncovering the Origins of Kissing: A 4500-Year-Old Discovery

The first recorded kiss can be traced back to 4,500 years ago in Mesopotamia, according to researchers. Ancient texts from around 2500 BCE describe kissing as part of romantic intimacy, friendships, and family relations. The authors of the article challenge recent research suggesting that the first kiss occurred in India 3,500 years ago, pointing to evidence of lip kissing in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt. The practice of kissing may have evolutionary roots, as it has been observed in other primates. The researchers conclude that kissing was an ordinary part of everyday life in central parts of the ancient Middle East and was practiced by multiple ancient cultures for thousands of years, making it unlikely that the spread of herpes was caused by a sudden rise in smooching.