Symptoms of Cold Sores
Symptoms of cold sores often develop in a well-defined sequence, making them relatively easy to identify, particularly in individuals who have experienced previous outbreaks. The initial indication of an oncoming sore is a tingling, itching, or burning sensation at the site where the blister will eventually form. This pre-blister phase, called the prodrome, may last several hours or up to a day.
Shortly after the prodrome, small, fluid-filled blisters begin to appear—typically on the lips, corners of the mouth, or the skin surrounding the mouth. These blisters may be painful and tender to the touch. Over the next few days, the blisters rupture, leaking fluid and forming shallow, painful sores. These open sores then dry out, crust over with a yellow or brown scab, and gradually heal without scarring.
Typical cold sores follow this cycle over the course of 7 to 10 days:
- Tingling and itching (prodrome)
- Blister formation
- Blister rupture
- Crusting
- Healing
Accompanying symptoms may include:
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck or jaw
- Mild fever
- Sore throat
- General malaise
These additional symptoms are more common during a person’s first outbreak, which is typically more severe than subsequent ones.
Symptoms of Cold Sores
In some cases, cold sores may occur inside the nose, on the gums, or on the roof of the mouth. These can be mistaken for canker sores, but the two conditions are different—canker sores are non-viral, non-contagious, and usually occur inside the mouth only.
People with weakened immune systems may experience larger or longer-lasting outbreaks, and in rare cases, the virus can spread to the eyes (causing ocular herpes) or brain (causing encephalitis). Such complications are serious and require immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of Cold Sores
Cold sores can also affect psychological well-being, especially when outbreaks occur frequently or affect appearance. Many individuals report embarrassment, anxiety, or lowered self-esteem during visible outbreaks.
In conclusion, the symptoms of cold sores follow a predictable pattern that includes early warning signs, blistering, and healing. Recognising the stages allows for timely intervention, which can reduce both the severity and duration of outbreaks.
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