What it is
They are contagious, especially when blistering, so avoid kissing and sharing cups or towels until they heal. Avoid kissing newborn babies if you have a cold sore.
Antiviral creams can help if started early. Frequent or severe cold sores can be treated with tablets.
Common signs
- Tingling, itching or burning before the sore appears
- Small fluid-filled blisters on the lip
- Blisters that burst, crust over and heal
How it is usually diagnosed
- Recognised by how they look
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Notes on how often they happen and possible triggers
- Treatments that worked
Questions to ask your doctor
- Should I use a cream or tablets?
- How can I reduce how often they come back?
- How do I protect my baby or partner?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- A cold sore near the eye with a painful red eye, sores spreading over eczema, or a baby under 2 months with sores: get urgent help
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.