Cold sores are characterized by the formation of blisters, which is why they are also called fever blisters. These painful blisters appear usually on the lips, and at the edge of the mouth. The disease is caused by an infection with the HSV-1 or the Herpes simplex virus - Type 1.
Cold sore blisters typically break open, then clear fluid substance seep through, and become dry, which then crust over and disappear after a few days. Then a yellow crust forms and generally falls off after some days, revealing a pinkish skin that heals without scarring. The course of the infection, if left untreated, usually varies from 5-6 days to 2-20 days.
For a number of people infected with cold sore, a prodrome, or appearance of early symptoms that indicates the start of the disease before actual disease symptoms occur. There are certain symptoms that may occur before the actual sores and blisters come into sight, by a few hours or a day or two.
The prodrome to this Herpes simplex infection usually involves tingling sensation. At this point, it has been studied that this is the best time to start treatment. Next is swelling and redness, which follows just right after tingling. Because lesions tend to form in the same spot, people with recurring cold sores more often than not can tell when a cold sore eruption is about to happen. Then, blistering occurs, followed by the appearance of tiny, red, liquid-filled sacs that form in clusters. This is often thought of as the most infectious stage of the disease. Weeping comes next. As the cold sore blisters ooze out the liquid as they burst, which form into a shallow sore - considered as the most painful stage. Scabbing can then happen after a few days, as the sore dries up, and becomes a crust.. This stage is usually unpleasant to look at, and can cause many people to be extremely self-conscious. Finally, the healing stage happens when the sore scabs off and leaves a flaked skin, eventually healing without scar formation.
Other symptoms that may develop together with the formation of cold sore blisters include a fever, a number of people get flu-like symptoms from an outbreak; sore throat, especially when cold sores appear in the mouth or the surface of the mouth; swollen lymph nodes in the carotid or neck area; drooling when particularly happens in infants and toddlers, and overall discomfort that causes painful eating, drinking, talking and sleeping.
There can be limited measures that people can do to prevent the virus, and once infected, the virus cannot be eradicated. These Herpes simplex viruses are hidden deep in the body so that drugs can not reach, and then there really is no cure. Patients with recurrent, but not overwhelming, cold sores can consider a more systemic treatment approach. There are many drugs that can treat symptoms and fight the cold sore episodes. Additionally, there are many natural remedies that can strengthen and improve the body's immune system.
