Cold Sore above my eye

Dear Ask The Doctor: I have a sore above my eye, close to my eyebrow. It's been itching and very uncomfortable for the past week. It doesn't seem to get better even with neosporin or cortizone cream. It's the size of a dime and has dimples or holes in it that produce pus and liquids. Can you please tell me what this might be?

Dear Jose:

Your description points towards the diagnosis of a cold sore which is an infection caused by the herpes simplex type 1 virus. The virus remains dormant in the body after primary infection and keeps reactivating in conditions of lowered immunity of the body. Proper hygiene is very important to prevent the spread of infection. I would advise you to see your GP who may prescribe you some oral or topical anti-viral medication to help speed up clear the infection. You can also use the over the counter topical applications for the relief of symptoms. DO NOT try to squeeze it because this can spread the infection and make it worse.