Cold Sores

What Are Cold Sores?

 

Cold sores, sometimes called fever blisters, are small, fluid-filled bumps that typically show up on or around the lips. They are caused by a virus known as the herpes simplex virus—most often HSV-1, but sometimes HSV-2 as well. Once the virus enters your system, it stays with you for life, even if you don’t always have symptoms.

 

Signs You Might Have a Cold Sore

 

A cold sore doesn’t just pop up out of nowhere. Many people feel a tingling, itching, or burning sensation around their lips before the blister appears. When the sore does form, it usually comes in a cluster and can look red, swollen, and irritated. In some cases—especially during your first outbreak—you might feel sick with symptoms like:

 

• A sore throat

• Pain while eating or swallowing

• Headaches

• Upset stomach

• Burning or irritation inside the mouth

 

After your first outbreak, your body builds up some defense with antibodies. That means future flare-ups may be milder or less frequent. However, some people continue to get cold sores from time to time, especially during periods of stress, illness, or sun exposure.

 

How Cold Sores Spread

 

Cold sores are very contagious. The virus can be passed through kissing, sharing drinks, using someone else’s lip balm, or even touching your face and not washing your hands afterward. If you have a cold sore, it’s important to avoid direct contact with others and keep your hands away from the blister.

Washing your hands often and keeping the area clean and dry can help prevent the virus from spreading—not just to other people, but to other parts of your own body, like your eyes.

 

What Can You Do About It?

 

While there’s no cure for cold sores, there are great options for managing the symptoms and shortening the healing time. At Paragon Skin, we offer different treatments depending on the severity of your outbreak and your personal health needs. Your care may include:

 

• Topical creams to reduce pain and help the sore heal faster

• Oral medication to fight the virus from the inside

• IV treatments for rare and severe cases

 

When you visit one of our experienced providers, we’ll take the time to understand your history and recommend a treatment plan that works best for you. The goal is always to reduce discomfort, prevent future outbreaks, and help you feel your best.

 

Take the First Step Toward Relief

 

Don’t let cold sores control your life. The team at Paragon Skin is ready to support you with professional, compassionate care. Whether you’ve had one outbreak or several, we’re here to help you manage your symptoms and protect your skin.

 

Visit us in Toms River, NJ, or Manahawkin, NJ, to speak with a provider and get the treatment you need. Let’s get you back to feeling confident and comfortable in your skin.

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