Cold Sores

Summary

Cold sores are caused by a contagious virus called herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types of HSV. Type 1 usually causes oral herpes, or cold sores. Type 1 herpes virus infects more than half of the U.S. population by the time they reach their 20s. Type 2 usually affects the genital area.

Some people have no symptoms from the infection. But others develop painful and unsightly cold sores. Cold sores usually occur outside the mouth, on or around the lips. When they are inside the mouth, they are usually on the gums or the roof of the mouth. They are not the same as canker sores, which are not contagious.

There is no cure for cold sores. They normally go away on their own in a few weeks. Antiviral medicines can help them heal faster. They can also help to prevent cold sores in people who often get them. Other medicines can help with the pain and discomfort of the sores. These include ointments that numb the blisters, soften the crusts of the sores, or dry them out. Protecting your lips from the sun with sunblock lip balm can also help.

Related Issues

• Can You Get Genital Herpes from a Cold Sore? Nemours Foundation

Find an Expert

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

Clinical Trials

• ClinicalTrials.gov: Herpes Labialis National Institutes of Health

Start Here

• Cold Sore Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
• Fever Blisters & Canker Sores National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research

Teenagers

• Cold Sores (HSV-1) Nemours Foundation

Images

• Cold Sores (Orofacial Herpes) VisualDX

Children

• Coping with Cold Sores Nemours Foundation
• Herpes Simplex Virus (Cold Sores) American Academy of Pediatrics

Patient Handouts

• Herpes – oral Medical Encyclopedia
• Herpetic stomatitis Medical Encyclopedia
• Mouth sores Medical Encyclopedia

Journal Articles

• Cold Sores