Cold sores typically last 7 days although they may also last 14 days.
The 5 stages of a cold sore are.
Stage 1: Telltale tingling which causes a prickling sensation around your mouth and especially on the lips.
Stage 2: Blistering of the cold sore.
Stage 3: Ulcer Eruption.
Stage 4: Scab formation and crusting.
Stage 5: Healing of the cold sore.
Things that can trigger a cold sore include.
Infections, such as a respiratory tract infection.
Having a high temperature (fever)
Emotional upset or psychological stress.
Tiredness and fatigue.
An injury to the affected area.
Menstruation (periods)
Strong sunlight.
Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus.
Once the herpes simplex virus is in you, it can cause outbreaks of cold sores.
Cold sore outbreaks are often triggered by exposure to hot sun, cold wind, a cold or other illness, a weak immune system, changing hormone levels, or even stress.
Cold sores, or fever blisters, are a common viral infection.
A cold sore is a tiny, fluid-filled blisters on and around the lips.
Many of those affected by cold sores notice that they are triggered when they are feeling stressed.
Triggers of cold sore outbreaks vary from person to person, but stress is one of the most common triggers of cold sores.
Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus and are very common.
Most cold sores will go away on their own within 7 to 14 days without any treatment.
Because cold sores are caused by a virus, doctors may suggest an antiviral medication to help you heal more quickly.
The antiviral drugs used to treat cold sores include acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (Valtrex), famciclovir (Famvir), and penciclovir (Denavir).
Sunscreen. Getting a sunburn may trigger a cold sore.
Cold sores, caused by a type of virus called herpes simplex type 1, are contagious until they completely go away, which usually takes about two weeks.
Cold sores are the most contagious when fluid seeps out of the sores.
Typically, cold sores present in five major stages which include telltale tingling, blistering, ulcer eruption, scab formation, and healing.
Each of the cold sore stages has varying signs.