Chapter 1: Clinical Overview
Cold sores generally start as a localised tingling or itching sensation on the lips, around the nose or on the chin.
One or two days later a blister-like sore spot appears.
The infection may spread to other areas through touching the blister and then touching other parts of the body.
The area may be painful, feel tender and have a hot or burning sensation.
The blisters will burst after a few days releasing the fluid inside and then form a crust or scab over the spot.
The crust will dry up and then fall off after about 10 days.
Note: a cold sore that is spread into the eye can be very painful and can damage sight and urgent medical attention is required.
What else could it be?
There are other conditions which can be mistaken for cold sores, such as:
Angular cheilitis is a common, non-contagious, inflammatory condition of the corners of the mouth (which may be have a secondary fungal or bacterial infection).
Impetigo (which is a bacterial infection).
Infected pimple (which is a bacterial infection).