Cold sores
Overview
Cold sores are common and usually clear up on their own within 10 days. There are things you can do to help ease the pain.
Symptoms
A cold sore usually starts with a tingling, itching or burning feeling. Over the next 48 hours one or more painful blisters will appear on your face. Cold sores should start to heal within 10 days, but are contagious and may be irritating or painful while they heal. Certain things may trigger a cold sore, such as illness, sunshine or being on your period.
Causes
Cold sores are caused by a virus called herpes simplex. Most people are exposed to the virus when they're children after close skin to skin contact, such as kissing, with someone who has a cold sore. Once you have the virus, it stays in your skin for the rest of your life. Sometimes it causes a cold sore.
Treatment
A GP may prescribe antiviral tablets if your cold sores are very large, painful or keep coming back. Newborn babies, pregnant women and people with a weakened immune system may be referred to hospital for advice or treatment.