Shrug Them Off, or Seek Help?
Cold sores, aka fever blisters, are known to medical professionals as outbreaks of the herpes simplex virus. Most of us have experienced them at one time or another, on the lips or inside the mouth. They can be spread by kissing or by sharing spoons, cups, or razors with an infected person. Once you get it, the virus remains for the rest of your life. So if you have it, be careful not to spread it.
Cold sores usually start to heal on their own within a few days, but they can be treated with skin creams or sometimes pills.
Cold sores are unsightly but only a slight risk to your health. See your doctor if:
- Your immune system is compromised.
- Your cold sores don’t heal within two weeks.
- Your symptoms are severe or you get cold sores often.
- You experience irritation in your eyes or nose.
Dr. Moran was born and raised in San Jose, California where she lived with her mom, dad, and three younger sisters. After graduating from Santa Teresa High School she attended San Diego State University, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude. After completing her studies at San Diego State, she returned to the Bay Area to attend the prestigious University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, California. In her spare time, Dr. Moran enjoys being outdoors: gardening, wakeboarding, camping, being at the beach, and running are just a few of Dr. Moran’s favorite outdoor activities. In addition, Dr. Moran loves spending time with her family which includes her dog and turtle. Dr. Moran is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, Monterey Bay Dental Society, and the Santa Clara County Dental Society.
