Cold Sores

From beginning to end, cold sores follow a typical cycle usually lasting from eight to 10 days, but some can last up to two weeks. People who suffer from cold sores know that even one day with a cold sore can be very disruptive. And while there is no cure for the infection, there is a way to control it. Early treatment ensures best results. Below are the typical stages of a cold sore:

- Days 1 - 2: The Tingle Stage Before any visible symptoms appear, there may be a tingle, itch and/or burning sensation at the site. The infection is contagious even at this stage, so avoid close physical contact. Using a topical treatment at this early stage can help reduce the infection from entering healthy skin cells.

- Days 2 - 4: The Blister Stage The blister appears as a group of small painful lumps that multiply and/or become enlarged. White blood cells travel to the blister and help fight the infection. The cold sore fills with vesicle fluid (pus) and contains millions of virus particles.

- Day 4: The Ulcer Stage During the ulcer stage, typically the most painful, a shallow, cold sore develops. A red ring of inflammation around the affected area may also appear.

- Days 5 - 8: The Scabbing Stage As a cold sore dries out, a golden-brown crust appears and forms a scab. As the scab shrinks, painful cracks may develop that can bleed. Severe itching and/or burning is also common.

- Days 8 - 10: The Healing Stage As the cold sore heals and the scab starts to come off, some dry flaking and residual swelling may result. The skin may also remain slightly pink or red. Cold sores typically heal within eight to 10 days, but in some cases may last up to two weeks.

Possible Causes of Cold Sore / Fever Blister
Cold sores are caused by herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1). While cold sores are caused by a virus, canker sores are caused by bacteria. Additionally, cold sores occur on the outside of the mouth around the lip area, while canker sores occur inside the mouth. Cold sores may be triggered by a fever; infection; cold; excess exposure to the sun and wind; stress; menstruation; hormones and decreased immunity. Cold sores are extremely contagious.

Possible Symptoms of Cold Sore / Fever Blister
Symptoms of a cold sore outbreak include mouth soreness that interferes with eating, drinking, talking and sleeping; fever; sore throat; swollen lymph nodes and drooling in children. It is not known what causes cold sores to recur, but typical triggers include stress, fatigue, exposure to sunlight, food allergies, other infections, trauma to the mouth, dental treatment and pregnancy.

Possible Lifestyle Changes for Cold Sore / Fever Blister
Cold sores are extremely contagious, so close physical contact with others should be avoided. Try to avoid touching the cold sore. Wash hands thoroughly after applying medication. Examine what may be triggering cold sore outbreaks and avoid those triggers. Consume a healthy diet and get plenty of rest. Follow a regular exercise routine. Avoid trauma to the mouth by wearing mouth protection when playing contact sports and informing the dentist if cold sores are a problem. Learn to manage stress effectively by practicing relaxation techniques (yoga, meditation or relaxation therapy). Make time for sleep, rest and relaxation every day. Protect the face and mouth from cold weather and wind. Use lip moisturizers and sunscreen to keep the skin moist. Limit sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. by wearing a hat whenever possible. Drink plenty of water to hydrate the skin. Avoid contact with people who have cold and flu symptoms. Wash hands frequently to stop the spread of germs.