Cold Sores

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Cold Sores or Fever Blisters are small, painful, fluid-filled blisters or lesions on the lips, mouth, or nose caused by virus.

Why it occurs?

Herpes simplex virus type 1 is usually responsible for cold sores. Herpes simplex virus type 2 can also cause sores around the mouth. It can be transmitted from affected person to the person who does not have it by shared eating utensils, razors and towels etc.

What are the Signs and Symptoms?

• Tingling, burning, itching, tenderness, numbness, or pain in the affected area, about 6 to 48 hours before a cold sore appear (called the prodromal stage)
• Tingling or itching on the lips or mouth (before cold sores appear)
• Red or fluid-filled, small, painful blisters or lesions on the lips, mouth, or nose, sometimes, on your nostrils, chin or fingers.
• Fever and swollen neck glands (only during first outbreak)
• Eating, drinking, and sleeping uncomfortable
• A Sore Throat
• Usual duration- 10 to 14 days
• First outbreak is more severe than later outbreak and sores may spread to any part of the mouth. But, when you are first infected with HSV, you may not develop the sores.