Diseases and Conditions
Cold sore
Overview
Symptoms
Causes
Risk factors
Complications
Prevention
Diagnosis
Treatment
Lifestyle and home remedies
Alternative medicine
Preparing for an appointment
Risk factors
Almost everyone is at risk of cold sores. Most adults carry the virus that causes cold sores, even if they've never had symptoms.
You're most at risk of complications from the virus if you have a weakened immune system from conditions and treatments such as:
- HIV/AIDS
- Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
- Cancer chemotherapy
- Anti-rejection drugs for organ transplants
