About cold sores

What is a cold sore?

Cold sores are also known as a fever blister that usually forms on the lip or around your mouth. The cold sore is marked by fluid filled blisters that make the skin red and swollen.  >>

Who gets a cold sore?

Anyone can get the herpes simplex virus. Most people get the virus during childhood.  >>

When do you get a cold sore?

There are many triggers for a cold sore to appear or to activate the herpes simplex virus. Cold sore outbreaks are generally a result of psychological or physical stress.  >>

Symptoms of a cold sore

If you get cold sores you may experience some unusual sensations around your lips and mouth signalling that a cold sore is about to develop.  >>

Phases of a cold sore

There are 4 main stages to the life cycle of a cold sore. Together, the 4 phases typically run 7 to 10 days, but can sometimes last up to 2 weeks or longer.  >>

Herpes simplex labialis

Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types of the herpes simplex virus: HSV-1 and HSV-2.  >>