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Cold Sore

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Definition

Herpes labialis is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. It leads to the development of small and usually painful blisters on the skin of the lips, mouth, gums, or lip area. These blisters are commonly called cold sores or fever blisters.

Symptoms

Warning symptoms of itching, burning, increased sensitivity, or tingling sensation may occur about 2 days before lesions appear.

  • Skin lesions or rash around the lips, mouth, and gums
  • Small blisters (vesicles) filled with clear yellowish fluid
    • Blisters on a raised, red, painful skin area
    • Blisters that form, break, and ooze
    • Yellow crusts that slough to reveal pink, healing skin
    • Several smaller blisters that merge to form a larger blister
  • Mild fever (may occur)
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Blisters
Bullae are blisters larger than 1 centimeter wide. Bullae that are filled with clear fluid may occur on the skin.  More »
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Mouth Ulcers
Mouth ulcers are sores or open lesions in the mouth. (See also mouth sores or canker sores)  More »
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Mouth Lesions
Various types of sores can appear anywhere within the mouth, including the inner cheeks, gums, tongue, lips, or palate.  More »
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