Cold sores are very common.

They usually appear as small, painful blisters on or around the lips.

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What is a cold sore?

A cold sore is a group of fluid-filled blisters.

They most often appear:

• Where the lip meets the surrounding skin.
• Around the mouth.
• Sometimes near the nostrils.

After a few days, the blisters dry out and form a yellowish crust. This usually heals within a week or so.

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What causes cold sores?

Cold sores are caused by a virus called herpes simplex.

Most people catch this virus during childhood. Some have a first infection that causes fever and mouth ulcers.

Not everyone who catches the virus gets cold sores. Only about one in three people go on to develop them later in life.

Some people get cold sores even if they don’t remember having the first infection.

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What can trigger a cold sore?

Cold sores often appear when the body is run down.

Common triggers include:

• Having a cold, flu or another illness.
• Strong sunlight or ultraviolet (UV) light.
• Stress or tiredness.
• Hormonal changes, such as during the menstrual cycle.

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Are cold sores infectious?

Yes. Cold sores are contagious.

The virus spreads through close contact, such as:

• Kissing.
• Skin-to-skin contact.

Cold sores are most infectious when the blisters are present.

To reduce the risk of spreading infection:

• Avoid touching or picking the sore.
• Do not squeeze or prick the blisters.
• Avoid kissing or close contact until the sore has healed.

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What treatments are available?

Cold sores usually heal on their own, but treatment can help.

Antiviral creams can:

• Reduce pain.
• Help sores heal more quickly.

Common antiviral creams include aciclovir and penciclovir.

Some are available from a pharmacy. Others need to be prescribed by a doctor.

For best results:

• Start treatment at the first tingling or itching feeling.
• Apply the cream regularly, following the instructions.

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Can I prevent cold sores?

You may not be able to stop them completely, but you can reduce how often they appear.

Helpful steps include:

• Using lip balm with sun protection.
• Avoiding known triggers where possible.
• Taking care of your general health.
• Managing stress and getting enough rest.

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When should I seek advice?

Speak to a healthcare professional if:

• Cold sores are severe or very painful.
• They keep coming back.
• They do not heal after two weeks.
• You have a weakened immune system.

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Need help?

If cold sores are affecting your comfort or confidence, your pharmacist, dental team or doctor can offer advice and treatment options.