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Who is Affected by Cold Sores?

The virus that causes cold sores is common. Most people have been infected with this virus (herpes simplex virus, or HSV) by the time they reach adulthood.

Although most people have been exposed to HSV, only about 20% to 40% develop recurring cold sores.1 After a person becomes infected, the virus remains inactive in the body until it is triggered by something such as sunlight exposure or stress. When active, the virus results in a cold sore outbreak.

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Recognizing and Preventing Rosacea

Lee Anderson developed the skin condition rosacea when she was in her 40s. "My daughter used to tease me that I had 'slap-face,' because that's what it looked like all the time -- that I'd been slapped. It was very embarrassing," says Anderson, now 54. The condition grew worse, and she eventually found herself turning down social invitations. "It ate away at my self-confidence." Anderson was in plenty of company. An estimated 14 million Americans have rosacea, which is a fairly common skin...

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Citations

  1. Marques AR, Straus SE (2008). Herpes simplex. In K Wolff et al., eds., Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine, 7th ed., vol. 2, pp. 1873-1885. New York: McGraw-Hill Medical.

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerKathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerAlexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
Last RevisedMarch 11, 2010

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: March 11, 2010
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.

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