Coldsores on hand

[Sarah471]

I've had coldsores on my hand for the last 19 years. It started on my finger and has gradually worked it's way onto the palm of my hand, where it seems to be an almost permanent fixture these days. I just get rid of one outbreak when another one starts up.

None of my doctors seem to have a clue about it. I can get anti-virals on request but by the time I get a prescription it's a bit late. I put a plaster on but as they're reluctant to stay put on the palm of your hand, I wear gloves over the top to keep them in place.

Due to the fact that the infection has already spread I'm extremely cautious in case I spread it to another part of my body or, worse still, to somebody else.

Can somebody please tell me under what circumstances I'm at risk of spreading the virus? Can I wash my hands safely (I've read not to share towels)?

Many thanks for any advice you can offer. I feel very much in the dark, even after all this time.

[feelingundone]

Ok. I would suggest daily suppressive medication and see if that helps. Sorry to hear your having so much trouble.

[feelingundone]

The virus has not spread. That is all part of the same nerve ganglia and you can have an outbreak anywhere in that nerve ganglia.
How were you diagnosed?

You can take daily antivirals like valtrex. This should help with the number of outbreaks you have. Spreading it to other spots on your body would be very rare. Yes don't share towels when you have an outbreak and avoid touching other peoples genitals or children's faces when having an outbreak. Herpes whitlow doesn't shed so when your not having any symptoms it's safe to touch what ever you want.

[Sarah471]

Thanks for the response. My doctor took a sample years ago and confirmed it was herpes.