Cold sores
Recurrent viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus, with painful lip vesicles. It benefits from early treatment of outbreaks.
What is cold sores
Herpes lip is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (usually HSV-1), which is characterized by the recurrent appearance of painful vesicles in the lip and around the mouth.
After the first infection — which often goes unnoticed in childhood — the virus remains in nerve endings and can reactivate throughout life, giving rise to outbreaks with varying patterns and frequency among people.
Signs and symptoms
- Feeling tingling, itching or burning on the lip, hours before the appearance of the lesions — the classic "warning".
- Small vesicles grouped into clusters, with clear content.
- Local pain that can make it difficult to eat or talk.
- The vesicles rupture and form yellowish crusts within 2-4 days.
- The complete resolution usually takes 7-10 days.
- In the first outbreaks there may be general symptoms — low fever, adenopathies, malaise.
Common triggers
- Intense sun exposure (especially on unprotected skin and lips).
- Emotional or physical stress.
- Infections — colds, flu, fever.
- Menstruation and hormonal changes.
- Extreme tiredness, lack of sleep.
- Lip trauma (dental treatments, bites).
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is clinical — by the characteristic appearance of the lesions and by the history of recurrent outbreaks. No tests are required in typical situations.
In an online consultation, the dermatologist evaluates photographs of the lesions and a questionnaire on pattern, triggers and frequency of outbreaks. This information defines the treatment plan and prevention strategy.
Options for treatment
Treatment is more effective when initiated early — in the first signs of the outbreak, before the vesicles appear or at the beginning.
Topical application
Formulations applied directly to the lesions, indicated by the dermatologist. More effective when initiated in the first signs.
systemic treatment
Indicated in the most intense, recurrent outbreaks or in patients with risk factors. Defined case by case by dermatologist.
Preventive strategy
In patients with very frequent outbreaks, there is the possibility of prevention plan. Evaluated individually and with continued follow-up.
Talk to a dermatologist about your cold sores
No months-long wait for an in-person appointment. Each case reaches the dermatologist already prepared with photographs, history and questionnaire answers. Choose a report in under 24h or a booked video consultation.
Start consultationPrevention
- Daily sun protection on the lips, with balm with high factor.
- Avoid direct contact (kissing, sharing cups or utensils) during an active outbreak.
- Manage stress and sleep
- Recognise your personal triggers and anticipate whenever possible.
- Initiate treatment as soon as the first signs appear.
Frequently asked questions
Can cold sores be cured?
Nope. After the first infection, the virus remains in the body. You can't eliminate him. The outbreaks can be treated and prevented, but the virus remains present.
Should I avoid contact with other people during an outbreak?
Yes, especially with babies, pregnant women, immunocompromised patients and people with active atopic dermatitis. The virus is contagious as long as there are active vesicles or moist crusts.
Is the online consultation for cold sores?
Yeah. In a condition where response time matters (treatment early is more effective), online consultation is particularly practical — it sends the case when it recognizes the first signs and receives rapid guidance.
If the dermatologist considers it clinically justified, is prescription issued?
Yeah. When the dermatologist considers clinically justified in the context of his case, electronic prescription may be issued together with the report. The decision to prescribe depends on the clinical evaluation.
Treat your cold sores early
In the first signs, send the case online. A dermatologist responds within the time frame of the chosen plan.
- From 60€
- Early response
- Follow up