Quick Scoop

Cold sores are small, painful blisters usually around the lips or mouth, and they’re caused by the herpes simplex virus, most often HSV-1. They often tingle or burn before appearing, can be contagious, and usually heal on their own within about 2 weeks.

What they are

Cold sores are also called fever blisters or oral herpes. They can show up on or near the lips, and sometimes on the nose, chin, gums, or inside the mouth.

Common signs

• Tingling, itching, or burning before the sore appears.

• Small fluid-filled blisters that may crust over.

• Pain, soreness, and sometimes fever or swollen glands in a first outbreak.

Why they come back

After the first infection, the virus stays in the body and can reactivate later. Common triggers include stress, illness, sun exposure, temperature changes, and hormonal shifts.

Treatment

There is no cure, but antiviral medicines can help shorten outbreaks, especially if started early. Pain relief and self-care like cold compresses, lip balm, and over-the-counter pain medicine may also help.

When to get help

Seek medical advice if sores are severe, keep coming back often, involve the eyes, or happen in a baby or someone with a weakened immune system.

If you want, I can also give you a simple “cold sore vs canker sore” guide.