A cold sore is a group of tiny, painful blisters caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). They’re also called fever blisters or herpes simplex labialis. Up to 90% of people around the world have at least one form of HSV. The symptoms are usually the most severe the first you time you get cold sores. A first-time cold sore can make a child seriously ill. After the first outbreak,
your body should make antibodies, and you may never have another infection. But many people get cold sores that come back. Cold sores are most likely to show up on the outside of your mouth and lips, but you can also get them on your nose and cheeks. You may get cold sores as late as 20 days after you’re infected. The sore might appear near where the virus entered your body. Cold sores happen in stages: You might also have red or swollen gums, swollen glands in your neck, fever, or muscle aches. First-time infections can also cause: You catch HSV when you come into contact with people or things that carry the virus. For instance, you can get it from kissing someone who has the virus or from sharing eating utensils, towels, or razors. Two types of the virus can cause cold sores: HSV-1 and HSV-2. Both types can also cause sores on your genitals and can be spread by oral sex. Type 1 usually causes cold sores, and type 2 mostly causes genital herpes, but either can be found in both areas. Certain things can trigger an outbreak, including:
Cold sores generally aren’t serious, but the infection may be life-threatening for someone who has a weakened immune system because of AIDS, another condition, or medications. If you have a severe case of a skin condition called eczema, you may get
cold sores over large parts of your body. Your doctor might diagnose a cold sore just by looking at the blisters. They can also swab the blister and test the fluid for HSV. Cold Sore TreatmentThere’s no cure for cold sores. Once you have the virus, it stays in your body. The sores themselves usually heal on their own in 1 or 2 weeks. Antiviral medications can speed healing, especially if you take them at the first sign of an outbreak. Your doctor might tell you to use:
Some home remedies can help you feel better while you heal:
Cold Sore ComplicationsComplications from a cold sore are rare, but can happen if the virus spreads to another part of your body, including your:
To lower your risk of another outbreak:
To keep from spreading the virus, when you have cold sores, don't:
Keep in mind that you can spread the virus even without symptoms. How do I get rid of a blister on my lip?What are the best ways to get rid of a cold sore?. Cold, damp washcloth.. Ice or cold compress.. Petroleum jelly.. Pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen.. What does a blister on your lip look like?What Does a Fever Blister on Your Lip Look Like? A fever blister on your lip will appear as a small area of red, inflamed skin that may feel sore. A blister will then form, and may break apart and weep clear liquid. After a few days, the fever blister will be covered by hard crusts or scabs.
Can lip blisters be caused by stress?One of the main causes of mouth sores is emotional stress. If you are stressed, anxious or upset this can trigger an outbreak. The two kinds of sores that can manifest are canker sores or cold sores.
What does a Herpe sore look like on lips?In oral herpes, most blisters appear on the lips or mouth. They can also form elsewhere on the face, especially around the chin and below the nose, or on the tongue. At first, the sores look similar to small bumps or pimples before developing into pus-filled blisters. These may be red, yellow or white.
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