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After being exposed to the herpes simplex 1 virus for the first time, you may develop a blistering rash in the mouth that may be accompanied by a body-wide, flu-like illness. This first outbreak of cold sores is usually gone within 7-10 days, but can last up to 20 days.
The symptoms of the first outbreak are:
After these initial symptoms, the virus may lie quietly in the nerves until it is reactivated, typically by stress or illness. Direct sunlight, a weakened immune system, and menstruation can also trigger reactivation. If reactivated, the virus will come out as a cold sore (fever blister). A few days before, you may notice some itching, burning, or pain in the area where the cold sore will appear. Some people have outbreaks regularly, and some never have another after the initial infection.
The symptoms of an active cold sore are:
References:
Beers MH, Fletcher AJ, et al. Merck Manual of Medical Information . 2nd ed. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck Research Laboratories; 2003.
Cold sore. Mayo Clinic website. Available at: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cold-sore/DS00358 . Updated July 2008. Accessed September 24, 2008.
Herpes simplex. American Academy of Dermatology website. Available at: http://www.aad.org/default.htm . Accessed September 24, 2008.
Miller C. Oral herpes/cold sores essential facts. Australian Herpes Management Forum website. Available at: http://www.ahmf.com.au/oral_herpes/essential_facts.htm . Updated June 2007. Accessed September 24, 2008.
Last reviewed July 2008 by David Horn, MD, FACP
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.
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