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Herpes labialis, more commonly known as cold sores or fever blisters, is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). While cold sores are usually caused by HSV-1, either virus type (HSV-1 or HSV-2) can cause sores around the lips, mouth, etc.
Stages
Burning, itching, or tingling sensation may occur 1-2 days before the cold sore appears (known as prodrome)
Formation of small, painful, fluid-filled blisters
Blisters break open, releasing a clear fluid
Blisters dry and scab over, forming a yellow crust that eventually falls off
Underlying skin begins to heal
Common triggers
Fever
Emotional stress
Menstrual periods
Sun exposure
Treatment
While cold sores usually heal in 7-10 days without treatment, there are medications that may reduce the frequency and/or duration of outbreaks if started at the first sign of a cold sore:
Topical medications
§ Docosanol 10% cream (Abreva®)
§ Acyclovir 5% cream or ointment (Zovirax®)
§ Penciclovir 1% cream (Denavir®)
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§ Acyclovir tablets/capsules (Zovirax®)
§ Valacyclovir caplets (Valtrex®)
§ Famciclovir tablets (Famvir®)
Medications used to decrease pain and discomfort
§ Topical lidocaine or benzocaine
§ OTC pain relievers - aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen
Contact your physician for prescription/dosing
Prevention
Avoid skin contact such as kissing or sharing items such as eating utensils, toothbrushes, towels, razors, lipstick, etc. when blisters are present
Wash your hands and do not touch the cold sore to avoid spreading the virus to other areas of the body or to other people
NOTE: There is no cure for herpes, and it is still possible to spread the herpes virus even when symptoms/sores are not present
For additional information talk with you pharmacist or physician or visit www.mayoclinic.com or www.webmd.com.
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