Are you curious about cold sores? At Gilbride Pharmacy, we've got you covered. Discover what cold sores are, their causes, symptoms and how to treat them effectively.
What is a Cold Sore?
A cold sore, also known as herpes simplex labialis or fever blister, is a cluster of small, painful blisters that can appear around the mouth, lips and sometimes in the nose, cheeks or inside the mouth. Typically caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), cold sores can be an occasional nuisance for some and recurrent for others.
Cold sores are a form of herpes. HSV-1 is responsible for cold sores around the mouth and lips, while HSV-2 causes genital herpes. Surprisingly, both viruses can lead to sores in either area.
Cold sores are quite common, although generally not a severe medical issue. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to manage the symptoms effectively.
Symptoms
Cold sores typically develop around the mouth and lips within up to 20 days after infection. In addition to the sores, some may experience red or swollen gums, swollen neck glands, muscle aches or even fever. Initially, cold sore blisters appear as small, fluid-filled bumps surrounded by red, swollen skin. As they progress, the blisters burst, leading to the formation of a dry scab.
Stages of a Cold Sore Cold sores typically progress through stages, allowing you to take preventative measures before they become visible:
- A tingling, itching or burning sensation.
- Redness, swelling and pain as blisters form (usually 6-48 hours later).
- Blisters break open, with fluid oozing out for 2-3 days.
- A scab forms, which may crack or bleed.
- The scab falls off and the blister heals fully, in most cases within 10-14 days.
Cold sores usually clear up on their own in about 10 days, but this can vary. Factors like your personal triggers and their severity can affect recovery time. Luckily, there are strategies to speed up healing and alleviate discomfort.
Triggers
Cold sores often recur when your immune system is compromised. Maintaining good health can help prevent frequent outbreaks. Since triggers vary from person to person, it's essential to monitor your symptoms and identify what affects you. Common triggers include:
- Infections like colds or the flu
- Emotional and physical stress
- High fever
- Fatigue or exhaustion
- Lip or mouth injuries
- Hormonal changes, including menstruation in women
- Sunlight exposure
Treatment
While there's no cure for HSV, you can effectively manage cold sores during outbreaks. Quick action with the right medication can shorten symptom duration. When you experience a tingling, itching or burning sensation around your lips, mouth or face, consider using cold sore tablets or antiviral creams. Cold sore patches can protect the affected area and promote healing for cold sores with blisters.
Tablets These can treat HSV-related illnesses, including cold sores and genital herpes. If you've had such infections before or have a weakened immune system, your doctor may prescribe cold sore tablets. You can conveniently purchase these at our pharmacy after a brief consultation with our pharmacist. Topical treatments are available over-the-counter.
Creams While they can't cure the infection or prevent its transmission, cold sore creams can mitigate outbreaks when applied during the early stages. They are not suitable for use on open sores.
Warning
Contraindications Before starting cold sore treatment, consult your doctor if you:
- Are under 18
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Are aged over 65
- Experience kidney problems
- Have a suppressed immune system
Avoid cold sore tablets if you're allergic to their active ingredients or similar medications.
Interactions Before using cold sore tablets like aciclovir, notify your doctor if you're taking any of the following medications:
- Aminophylline or theophylline (for asthma)
- Cimetidine (for stomach ulcers)
- Mycophenolate mofetil (after an organ transplant)
- Probenecid (for gout)
- Certain medications used for HIV treatment
Visit Us
Gilbride Pharmacy is here to provide you with the information and solutions you need to manage cold sores effectively. Visit us for a consultation and guidance on your specific situation.