Recognizing the Symptoms

Cold sores tend to follow a series of stages:

• Tingling or itching: A burning or itching sensation is often the first sign, occurring 1–2 days before the sore appears.
• Formation of blisters: Small, fluid-filled blisters develop, usually near the lips but sometimes on the nose or gums.
• Blister rupture: The blisters break open, forming painful, red sores. This is the most contagious stage.
• Scabbing: The sores dry out and develop a crust, which eventually falls off during healing.

A typical outbreak lasts about 7 to 10 days. While the sores heal, the virus stays dormant in the body and can become active again during certain triggers.

What Triggers an Outbreak?

Several factors can reactivate the virus and cause new sores:

• Emotional or physical