Symptoms and Treatments for Cold Sores and Fever Blisters

Cold sores and fever blisters are caused by a virus that can be passed from person to person often by sharing cups or eating utensils or through skin-to-skin contact. The initial infection will generally appear as a cluster of painful sores, and then the virus will remain dormant in the nerves. The virus may later be reactivated during a cold, fever or period of stress. In some cases, sun exposure, trauma or dental treatment may also trigger an outbreak.

The initial infection may be accompanied by painful swelling, a sore throat, headache, nausea and vomiting. Later outbreaks may only include the sores themselves. Cold sores will most frequently occur along the lips or inside the mouth. They may tingle or burn before they appear, and the area may look red or swollen. Within one to two days of this initial discomfort, blisters will erupt. When these blisters pop, they will form crusted sores, which shed their scabs as they heal.

Cold sores can be not just painful, but also unsightly. They can last from seven to 14 days. Some treatments can help shorten the duration of cold sores. Acyclovir, famciclovir and valacyclovir can be used as soon as you feel a cold sore or fever blister coming on. In some cases, they may be used to prevent cold sores as well. If you have a cold sore, keep the area clean and dry, and use lip balm. Avoid touching the blisters, and limit personal contact to reduce the risk of spreading the virus. Contact Dr. Afar, Los Angeles dentist, to learn more.