Recognizing the Symptoms
Cold sores tend to follow a series of stages:
- Tingling or itching: A burning or itching sensation is often the first sign, occurring 1–2 days before the sore appears.
- Formation of blisters: Small, fluid-filled blisters develop, usually near the lips but sometimes on the nose or gums.
- Blister rupture: The blisters break open, forming painful, red sores. This is the most contagious stage.
- Scabbing: The sores dry out and develop a crust, which eventually falls off during healing.
A typical outbreak lasts about 7 to 10 days. While the sores heal, the virus stays dormant in the body and can become active again during certain triggers.
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