Symptoms of Cold Sores (Herpes Simplex Type 1)
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After being exposed to the herpes simplex 1 virus for the first time, you may develop a blistering rash in the mouth that may be accompanied by a body-wide, flu-like illness. This first outbreak of cold sores is usually gone within 7-10 days, but can last up to 20 days.
Blisters
The symptoms of the first outbreak are:
- A blistering, painful rash of small ulcerations across the lips, gums, tongue, and the inside of the mouth (more common in children)
- Pain and blistering on the soft roof of the mouth, tonsils, and throat (more common in adults)
-
Flu-like symptoms:
- Swollen, sore throat
- Mouth sores
- Fever
- Decreased energy
- Muscle aches and pains
- Difficulty breathing
- Swollen glands (lymph nodes) in the neck
After these initial symptoms, the virus may lie quietly in the nerves until it is reactivated, typically by stress or illness. Direct sunlight, a weakened immune system, and menstruation can also trigger reactivation. If reactivated, the virus will come out as a cold sore (fever blister). A few days before, you may notice some itching, burning, or pain in the area where the cold sore will appear. Some people have outbreaks regularly, and some never have another after the initial infection.
The symptoms of an active cold sore are:
- Small, painful, fluid-filled, red-rimmed blisters
- After a few days, the blisters dry and form a scab
- Scabs heal in about five days, usually without scarring or loss of sensation
References:
Beers MH, Fletcher AJ, et al. Merck Manual of Medical Information . 2nd ed. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck Research Laboratories; 2003.
Cold sore. Mayo Clinic website. Available at: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cold-sore/DS00358 . Updated July 2008. Accessed September 24, 2008.
Herpes simplex. American Academy of Dermatology website. Available at: http://www.aad.org/default.htm . Accessed September 24, 2008.
Miller C. Oral herpes/cold sores essential facts. Australian Herpes Management Forum website. Available at: http://www.ahmf.com.au/oral_herpes/essential_facts.htm . Updated June 2007. Accessed September 24, 2008.
Last reviewed July 2008 by David Horn, MD, FACP
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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