Cold sores are small blisters around the mouth, caused by the herpes simplex virus. They are sometimes called fever blisters. The most common strain of the virus causing cold sores is herpes simplex virus 1. It can be spread by kissing or sharing eating utensils or even sharing towels. Herpes
simplex is not curable, but may lie dormant for a long time. Episodes of the cold sores last no longer than 2 weeks. Hot sun, cold wind, a cold or other illness, or a weak immune system can cause an outbreak of herpes simplex virus. Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus. Once the herpes simplex virus is in you, it can cause outbreaks of cold sores. Cold sore outbreaks are often triggered by exposure to hot sun, cold wind, a cold or other
illness, a weak immune system, or even stress. Some people don’t have any symptoms with the first attack; others have flu-like symptoms and ulcers in and around the mouth. While each person may experience symptoms differently, these are the most common: Tingling of the lips, commonly felt before cold sores appear Small blisters on the lips and mouth that enlarge, burst, then crust over Itching, dryness, and irritation of the lips and mouth Soreness of the lips and mouth How are cold sores diagnosed?Your doctor can often diagnose cold sores by examining the sores. If the diagnosis is unclear, he or she may culture the sore by taking a sample of cells using a swab and examining it under a microscope. How are cold sores treated?Cold sores can’t be cured, but, if symptoms are severe, treatment may help relieve some symptoms. Treatment may include:
Cold sores take about 1 to 3 weeks to heal. The first time they appear, they can take up to 3 weeks to heal. But, when cold sores return, they usually take a week to heal if no medicines are used. Antiviral medications may help, but they need to be started before day 3 or 4 of the blister formation. Antivirals are usually not recommended for otherwise healthy people. Always consult your health care provider or dentist if the sore does not heal or becomes worse as time passes. Can cold sores be prevented?If you have never had a cold sore, avoid skin-to-skin contact with someone who has an active cold sore. If you have had a cold sore, you may prevent or reduce the number of recurrences by determining what triggers your outbreaks and avoiding the trigger. For instance, if sun exposure is a trigger, use sun screen when in the sun. If you have frequent outbreaks, consult with your health care provider. Starting treatment as soon as you know you are developing a cold sore can promote healing and reduce the time it takes a cold sore to heal. Key points
Next stepsTips to help you get the most from a visit to your health care provider:
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters or oral herpes, appear on the lips, on the gums, or in the mouth. Cold sores are highly contagious and very common. Oral herpes (cold sores, fever blisters) and genital herpes are both caused by viruses in the herpes family. Cold sores can be triggered by stress, illness, exposure to the sun or wind, menstrual periods, dental treatment, or other events, but not every outbreak can be associated with a specific trigger. There is no cure for the virus that causes cold sores. Some people can reduce the number and severity of cold sores by figuring out what triggers them and avoiding those things. Like genital herpes, oral herpes can be spread to other people or to other parts of your body even when sores are not present. Even though there is no cure, you can minimize discomfort and transmission. The following information pertains to cold sores in or around the mouth. To find out more about genital herpes, click the link below. Genital Herpes Signs and Symptoms
TransmissionHerpes viruses are spread by touch. If you get cold sores, it is very important to wash your hands often and keep your hands away from your face. A cold sore is contagious during the prodromal period and when a sore is visible, but herpes viruses can be spread even when there are no symptoms or sores. The viruses can spread to other areas of the body and can be transmitted to the genital area during oral sex. If you touch a cold sore and then touch your eyes, your eyes could become infected, which can lead to major vision problems. Since cold sores are so contagious, avoid kissing and oral sex from the prodromal period until the sores are healed. Self-Care
Over the Counter Medications for Cold Sores and Fever Blisters
Cold Sores / Fever
Blisters: CALL THE UHS NURSE ADVICE LINE AT (512) 475-6877 (NURS) IF YOU EXPERIENCE ANY OF THE FOLLOWING:
Additional ResourcesGenital Herpes What is the difference between a fever blister and a cold sore?Fever blisters, commonly known as cold sores, present as tiny, fluid-filled blisters on lips, under the nose, or around the chin. There is no difference between cold sores and fever blisters, simply different terms for the same virus.
How do I get rid of a fever blister on my lip?A cold, damp cloth may reduce redness, help remove crusting and promote healing. Or try a warm compress to the blisters to ease pain. Rest and try pain relievers. Take over-the-counter pain relievers if you have a fever or the cold sore is painful.
Is a fever blister contagious?If you're wondering how long are cold sores contagious for, they are contagious from the moment you feel that first warning tingle until they have completely healed. However, they are at their most infectious when the blister bursts.
Can you have a blister on your lip that isn't a cold sore?What causes lip blisters? Blisters on the lip include cold sores, sunburn blisters, and canker sores. A person should pay attention to the blister's location and its appearance to help identify the cause. There are many reasons why lip blisters develop, including infections, sun damage, and allergies.
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