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Complications of Cold sore

Cold sores can be unsightly and some people feel embarrassed about them, particularly if they have severe or recurrent cold sores.

The virus that causes cold sores can be spread to different parts of the body, and it is particularly worrying if it spreads to the eye (occular herpes simplex). This may cause inflammation of the various parts of the eye including the eyelids, retina, cornea, and the white of the eye (conjunctivitis). If untreated, infections of the cornea (the transparent layer over the eye) can lead to blindness. This is why it is very important not to touch your eyes when you have an active cold sore; if you must touch them, for example to remove contact lenses, make sure you wash them first.