Cold Sores

Cold Sores – What You Should Know

Overview
Cold sores are small blisters that usually form around the lips or mouth. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and tend to resolve on their own. While not considered dangerous, they can be uncomfortable or cause concern.

What Causes Cold Sores?

Cold sores are caused by HSV-1, a common virus that can remain dormant in the body and reactivate from time to time. Triggers may include:

Stress
Fatigue
Illness
Sun exposure
Hormonal changes

How Cold Sores Spread

HSV-1 can spread through:

Kissing or close personal contact
Sharing eating utensils, lip balm, or towels
Touching the affected area and then touching another surface or person

Common Symptoms

Cold sore symptoms can vary, but may include:

Tingling or itching sensation
Small fluid-filled blisters
Redness or swelling
Mild discomfort or sensitivity

Self-Care Tips

Cold sores often improve within 7 to 10 days. The following tips may help manage symptoms:

Apply a cool compress to reduce swelling
Avoid touching or picking at the sores
Keep the area clean and dry
Identify and avoid potential triggers where possible

When to Seek Medical Advice

It is best to speak with a healthcare professional if:

Sores occur frequently or are severe
Healing is slow or incomplete
You experience other symptoms such as fever or swollen glands
You are unsure if the symptoms are related to cold sores