how to get rid of cold sore how_to_get_rid_of_cold_sores | Page 3

Cold sore symptoms
You may notice a tingling or burning sensation on your lips or
face several days before a cold sore develops. This is the best time
to start treatment. Once the sore forms, you’ll see a raised, red
blister full of fluid. It will usually be painful and tender to the
touch. There may be more than one sore present.
The cold sore will remain for up to two weeks and will be
contagious until it crusts over. Your first cold sore may not appear
for up to 20 days after you contract the herpes simplex virus.
You may also experience one or more of the following symptoms
during an outbreak:
fever
muscle aches
swollen lymph nodes
You should call your doctor immediately if you develop any eye
symptoms during a cold sore outbreak. Infections caused by the
herpes simplex virus can lead to permanent vision loss when
they’re not treated promptly.
Stages of a cold sore
A cold sore goes through five stages:
Stage one: Tingling and itching occurs about 24 hours
before blisters erupt.
Stage two: Fluid-filled blisters appear.
Stage three: The blisters burst, ooze, and form painful sores.