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Are you curious about cold sore symptoms? Want to know what to expect with cold sores, fever blisters or oral herpes outbreaks? In a minute you will for sure know what to expect from your cold sore symptoms.
Do you sometimes wonder if your cold sore symptoms are normal? Believe me, that is a common concern.
Right now I would like to share with you the most common cold sore symptoms. Quite likely your symptoms are similar. If not, then you may want to consult a medical professional about your cold sores.
Initial cold sore symptoms occur when you are first infected, and never again. These include sore throat, fever, headaches and lethargy. Many times it is mistaken for the flu. Seldom do you get cold sores, fever blisters or oral herpes during the initial infection.
After this, cold sores always appear as the main sign that the herpes simplex virus has become active. As long as the virus is dormant, you will not experience the following cold sore symptoms.
Here are the cold sore symptoms (also for fever blisters and oral herpes) in order of occurrence.
1. INITIAL WARNING AND DISCOMFORT
The first symptom of impending cold sores is almost undetectable. The area where the outbreak will appear starts to feel irritated. You may notice an itching or tingling sensation.
For some, there is a dry feeling that will make you want to use a lip balm.
You feel something is happening under the skin – and it is. The herpes simplex virus has become active, moved to the surface, and is in the process of entering the nerve cells there.
Applying something cold at this time, such as ice or a cold can of soda, will provide comfort. More importantly it could delay or stop the cold sore virus.
2. SWELLING AND PAINFUL BUMPS
The outbreak area now swells up as the cells fill with new virus clones. You may notice some painful little bumps. These are usually hard and red looking.
At this time, you may get a slight fever and headache. Your lymph glands under the jaw will usually become swollen and painful – and remain so for the duration of the sore.
3. ACTUAL ULCER APPEARS
The actual open sore will now appear as millions of cells, full of new virus, burst open. Your sore will weep a clear fluid as your body tries frantically to wash away the virus.
This will be the most painful time for most people. Cold sores, fever blisters and oral herpes sores are built right on the end of the nerves.
And this will be the most contagious period for your cold sores. The outbreak area is absolutely teaming with herpes virus looking for a new home.
4. HEALING BEGINS
Your sore now is in the healing mode, and should start getting better from here on.
A yellowish crust forms over the sore. It is still painful to the touch. If the crust is not kept soft, it will crack when you move your mouth. This is quite painful and slows the healing process.
Keep it soft and pliable with olive oil.
5. FINAL HEALING
The scab will last up to a week before it falls off, revealing new skin.
But, be cautious.
It will still be healing under the skin until the redness disappears. Herpes simplex virus is still present and you are still very contagious.
The swollen lymph glands should subside fast now.
This final healing period can be the most frustrating. It seems to drag on way too long – and you are feeling a lot better.
Keep in mind – you are still contagious and must still be careful because it can come back quickly.
These are the most common cold sore symptoms you can expect to see. Your symptoms may be slightly different. If they are way different, please see your health care professional.
Also, keep reading and searching. You do not have to suffer anymore. Discovered now are some wonderfully effective cold sore treatment options that will slow down – or completely stop – all your cold sore symptoms.
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