Symptoms
The first episode of herpes simplex 1 infection may result in 3-14 days of:
- Swollen, sore throat
- Mouth sores
- Fever
- Decreased energy
- Aches and pains
- Difficulty eating
- Swollen glands in the neck
- Headache
In the day just prior to the virus reappearing as a cold sore, you may notice some itching, burning, or pain in the area where the cold sore will appear.
Symptoms of cold sores on the lips, mouth, or skin include:
- Small, painful, fluid-filled, red-rimmed blisters
- Pain, tingling, or itching for a day or two before the blister appears
- After a few days, drying of the blister, which then forms a yellow crust and shallow ulcers
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and examine the blisters. Usually, the doctor can easily diagnose a cold sore by looking at it. Cold sores have a relatively classic appearance. In rare cases, the doctor may need to take a piece of a blister to analyze it or take a blood sample for testing.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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