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Cold sores progress through 5 stages during a 7-10 day period. If you know what is coming, it will help you be prepared.Cold Sore Stage 1: Initial SymptomsFor more than 85% of cold sore sufferers, outbreaks often begin with symptoms such as a tingling, tightness, soreness, or itching around the lips (days 1-2 of an outbreak). Cold Sore Stage 2: ProgressionAs the infection develops (days 2-4 of an outbreak), clumps of red, fluid-filled blisters begin to form. This is the result of the virus waking up, multiplying, and the body beginning to fight back. Cold Sore Stage 3: RuptureOn day 4 or 5 of an outbreak, the blisters can burst open and may be very painful. At this point, the exposed and ulcerated sores will begin to scab over as the body enters the healing process. Cold Sore Stage 4: ScabbingAround days 5-8 of an outbreak scabs form. These are often itchy, may crack open, and can bleed. It means you're nearing the end of the flare-up, so don't pick at them. Cold Sore Stage 5: ResolutionOnce the body has the virus back under control, the scabs will begin to peel off. For most people, this occurs 8-10 days from onset of symptoms without medication. After the scabs fall off, you may notice the skin underneath is pink or reddish for a while--that is to be expected. Learn About Cold Sores From Our ExpertsRecommended Adult ProductsOn this page
What are cold sores?Cold sores are small blister-like spots that appear in or around the outside of the mouth and are caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus. There is no cure for cold sores, but there are ways to treat the symptoms and prevent new outbreaks. What are the symptoms of cold sores?Cold sores start with an itchy and tingling sensation usually on the mouth, lips or nose and may form small blisters that crust after 3 days. Cold sores usually clear up after 2 weeks without leaving any scars. They can be highly contagious, even when the blisters aren’t present. The virus can spread between people by direct physical contact, such as kissing, skin-to-skin contact and sharing drink containers, eating utensils, towels or toothbrushes with someone who already has a cold sore. As well as a blister-like spot, the following symptoms are also common:
CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the mouth problems Symptom Checker and find out if you need to seek medical help. What causes cold sores?There are 2 types of herpes simplex virus. Cold sores are usually caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Herpes simplex virus type 2 causes most cases of genital herpes. However, both viruses can cause either cold sores or genital herpes. About 80 per cent of adults are infected with HSV-1. Most people are infected when they are young and the infection lasts for life. However, the virus can remain dormant (inactive) in many people, meaning that cold sores may never appear. Various factors can cause the virus to become active resulting in one or more cold sores. They can include:
When should I see my doctor?You may need to see a doctor if you have more severe symptoms or a weakened immune system — if, for example, you have HIV or you are having cancer treatment. It’s also a good idea to see your doctor if:
Antibiotics may be needed if the cold sore gets infected. FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — The Service Finder can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services. ASK YOUR DOCTOR — Preparing for an appointment? Use our Question Builder for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist. How are cold sores treated?MedicationsAntiviral creams or ointments such as aciclovir, famciclovir and valaciclovir should be used in the first few days of a cold sore outbreak when a tingling sensation or a raised sore or blister is first noticed. These are available without prescription from pharmacies and other shops and supermarkets. A single dose of antiviral tablets is also available from your pharmacist without a prescription. Talk to your pharmacist to see if they are right for you. Your pharmacist may also recommend products to treat the short-term symptoms of a cold sore. Povidone-iodine ointments (commonly known as Betadine) may reduce symptoms in some people. If you are in pain, paracetamol may be helpful. Alternatively, get advice from your doctor on medicines you can take. If you have frequent severe cold sores, your doctor may prescribe an oral antiviral medicine to stop the virus from reactivating. Complementary medicinesSome complementary medicines have been promoted as preventing cold sores. One of these products is an amino acid called lysine — but there is no evidence that it is effective. Self-helpIf you have a cold sore there are several things you can do to help manage the condition.
Can cold sores be prevented?There are steps you can take to prevent spreading cold sores to others if you have them:
There are also ways to prevent spreading cold sores from erupting again:
Complications of cold soresFor most people, cold sores get better in time with over-the-counter treatments and self-care. However, for people with weakened immune systems, cold sores can be more severe and spread more widely. Uncommon complications of cold sores include:
Can a cold sore last 3 days?A cold sore will last 1–2 weeks and go through five distinct stages before healing. Cold sores may return throughout an individual's life, although they can become less severe over time. In most cases, home care and OTC remedies can relieve symptoms and speed healing.
Is it possible for a cold sore to go away in 2 days?Cold sores usually clear up without treatment within 7 to 10 days. Antiviral tablets or cream can be used to ease your symptoms and speed up the healing time.
How do you get rid of a cold sore in 3 days?There are antiviral drugs that can help cold sores heal faster, including acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir and penciclovir.. Cold, damp washcloth.. Ice or cold compress.. Petroleum jelly.. Pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen.. Can a cold sore go away in 48 hours?It is not possible to get rid of a cold sore quickly, as there is currently no cure for HSV-1. In most cases, cold sores heal in 5–15 days without treatment. Antiviral medication may speed the healing process by about 1 day .
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