No, usually you do not need any tests to diagnose cold sores. The diagnose tends to be obvious, based on history and the appearance of the lesions However, if there’s any doubt, your GP can perform a swab and send it to the laboratory for analysis for HSV1.
• People with recurring cold sores occasionally worry that there’s something wrong with their immune system, or that they’re deficient in a vitamin or mineral. But cold sores are very common, and most people who get them are otherwise perfectly well. • Sometimes tiredness or another viral illness can make you more prone to cold [...]
• Usually no particular medication for cold sores is recommended- they naturally get better over 7-10 days. • There is some general advice when you have active cold sores, such as avoid touching the cold sores; wash hands regularly especially after applying creams or before putting in your contact lenses; and don’t share lip balm [...]
Once you’ve been infected, HSV1 stays in your body. In some people it means cold sores flare up from time to time, in others HSV1 lies dormant, and flares up rarely or not at all.
Acne is a common skin condition which leads to spots on the face, back and chest- it is most common in the teens and twenties, though some people also get it later in life. Normal skin has "sebaceous glands" which produce natural oils. During puberty, the skin produces more of these oils, which may cause blockage of the [...]
Acne is common, but only one in five people with acne get scarring. Scarring is caused when the affected skin pore swells and breaks down into the surrounding tissue. The skin responds to repair the area, by forming new fibrous tissue, "collagen". Scars can form in different ways: if there is a loss of tissue in the [...]
Every person is different. Some people can successfully manage their acne with over-the-counter creams and gels from the pharmacy. Others may need stronger prescription-only creams and gels. These treatments work in a variety of ways, and depending on the type of acne spots, certain ones may be more effective. Non-inflammatory lesions: Whiteheads or “closed comedones”- [...]
Several different oral antibiotics are commonly used for the treatment of mild to moderate acne. These may be tried when topical acne treatment (acne creams and gels) have not worked, or have caused side effects. Start here to book an appointment with one of our online doctors to discuss management of acne.
In some girls and women the pill (or COCP) can be used in the management of acne. The pill reduces the amount of "androgens" (male sex hormones) circulating in the body. Androgens are present in the female body, and may be associated with acne, as they cause the skin to produce more "sebum" (oils), particularly [...]
The online doctors at Qoctor can assess you for suitability to be referred to see a dermatologist for acne assessment and management. Please note, all treatment and advice is issued subject to your consultation and the doctor's assessment. The fee for a telehealth appointment is $29.99. Start HERE. What can a dermatologist do for acne? [...]
