Cold Sores

General Health

Cold sores don’t have to hold you back. At SwiftMedi, we provide quick access to proven antiviral treatments that reduce healing time and ease symptoms. Whether it’s your first outbreak or recurring flare-ups, you can take control and get back to feeling yourself again.

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About Cold Sores

Overview


Cold sores are small, fluid-filled blisters that typically appear around the lips or mouth, caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). They are common, highly contagious, and often triggered by stress, illness, fatigue, or even changes in the weather. While harmless, cold sores can be painful, unsightly, and emotionally distressing — especially as they tend to appear at the most inconvenient times.

Although there’s no cure for the herpes virus, treatment can shorten outbreaks, reduce discomfort, and help you regain confidence. At SwiftMedi, treatment suitability will always be assessed by a UK-registered prescriber following a secure online consultation.


Symptoms


Cold sores usually develop in stages:

  • Tingling or burning sensation (before blisters appear)
  • Red, painful blisters filled with fluid around the lips or mouth
  • Oozing and crusting as the sores break and heal
  • Symptoms usually last 7–10 days before clearing on their own


Some people may also experience:

  • Soreness when eating or drinking
  • Swollen glands
  • Fever or flu-like symptoms (rare, in severe outbreaks)



Diagnosis


Most people recognise cold sores from their typical appearance and tingling sensation before they develop. No formal test is usually required. If sores are unusually severe, frequent, or occur in unusual places (such as the eyes or genitals), medical assessment is important.


Treatments


Cold sores cannot be permanently cured, but treatment helps manage outbreaks:

  • Antiviral creams (e.g., aciclovir cream) – best when applied at the tingling stage, can shorten healing time
  • Antiviral tablets (e.g., aciclovir, valaciclovir) – often prescribed for severe or frequent outbreaks, reducing duration and intensity
  • Pain relief – over-the-counter gels or patches to ease soreness


At SwiftMedi, our prescribers can supply prescription antiviral medication where clinically appropriate, helping to reduce both the discomfort and the visibility of outbreaks.


Prevention


While outbreaks can’t always be prevented, you can reduce the risk by:

  • Avoiding known triggers (stress, fatigue, sun exposure)
  • Using lip balm with SPF protection
  • Eating a healthy diet and maintaining strong immunity
  • Avoiding close contact (like kissing) during an active outbreak
  • Not sharing cutlery, towels, or lip products



Misconceptions


“Cold sores only spread when you can see the blister.”
False — the virus can spread even before a blister is visible.

“Only people with poor hygiene get cold sores.”
False — cold sores are caused by a virus, not cleanliness.

“You can’t catch cold sores more than once.”
False — the virus stays in the body for life and can reactivate at any time.

Frequently asked questions

  • What are cold sores and what causes them?

    Cold sores are small, painful blisters that appear around the mouth and are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). Once infected, the virus stays in the body and can reactivate during periods of stress, illness or sun exposure. Cold sores usually heal within 7-10 days.

  • How do cold sores usually start?

    Most people notice tingling, burning or itching before a blister appears. This early “prodrome” stage can last several hours and is the best time to begin treatment. Blisters then develop, burst, crust over and heal naturally.

  • How long do cold sores last?

    A typical cold sore episode lasts around one to two weeks. Treatment started at the tingling stage can shorten the duration and reduce discomfort. Good skin care and avoiding triggers may also help prevent flare-ups.

  • Are cold sores contagious?

    Yes. Cold sores are highly contagious from the first tingle until the skin fully heals. The virus can spread through kissing, sharing drinks or oral contact. Avoid close contact while blisters are present and wash hands after touching the area.

  • What triggers cold sores to flare up?

    Common triggers include stress, illness, menstrual periods, sunlight, tiredness and weakened immunity. Identifying personal triggers helps reduce outbreaks. Using sun protection on the lips and starting treatment early may also help limit severity.

  • What treatments are available for cold sores?

    Treatments include antiviral creams, patches, cooling gels and oral antiviral medicines. Creams work best when applied at the first tingle. Oral treatments may be used for more severe or frequent episodes. Supportive measures like moisturising the lips can enhance comfort.

  • When should I see a doctor about cold sores?

    Seek medical advice if cold sores are severe, frequent, spreading to other areas or not healing after two weeks. You should also seek help if you have a weakened immune system, severe pain or concern about eye involvement.

  • Are cold sores dangerous for certain people?

    Yes. Cold sores can be more serious in people with weakened immunity, newborn babies or individuals with eczema. Prompt treatment and avoiding direct contact are especially important in these groups.

  • Can stress management help reduce cold sore outbreaks?

    Stress is one of the most common triggers for cold sores. Relaxation techniques, good sleep, hydration and regular exercise may reduce how often flare-ups happen. Managing stress can also improve healing time when a cold sore appears.

  • Can supplements like lysine prevent cold sores?

    Some people find lysine helpful, although evidence is mixed. Supplements may reduce recurrence of cold sores for certain individuals, but they should not replace antiviral treatments. If you choose to try lysine, take it consistently and discuss with a clinician if you take regular medicines.

  • Can cold sores spread to other parts of the body?

    Yes. Touching a cold sore and then touching the eyes or broken skin can spread the virus. This includes potential transmission to the fingers (herpetic whitlow) or eyes (ocular herpes). Regular hand washing helps reduce risk.

  • Do cold sores always appear in the same place?

    Cold sores often return to the same area because the virus lives in the nearby nerve pathways. However, flare-ups can occasionally appear on different parts of the lip or surrounding skin depending on the trigger.

  • Can makeup or skincare worsen cold sores?

    Heavily fragranced or irritating products may aggravate the skin and delay healing. If you use makeup, apply lightly and avoid touching the blister. Never share makeup during a cold sore outbreak as it can spread infection.

  • Can you exercise with a cold sore?

    Yes, exercise is safe, but wipe sweat away gently as irritation may worsen symptoms. Avoid sharing towels, bottles or equipment during a cold sore outbreak to prevent transmission to others.

  • How can I stop a cold sore from scarring?

    Most cold sores heal without scarring. Avoid picking scabs and keep the area moisturised with a gentle lip balm. If the skin becomes very dry or cracked, a clinician may advise additional treatments to support healing.