From the Guidelines
Cold sores typically occur on or around the lips, mouth, and nose, most commonly appearing on the outer edge of the lips (the vermilion border). These fluid-filled blisters, caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), can also develop on the nose, cheeks, or inside the mouth 1. The virus lies dormant in nerve cells until triggered by factors like stress, illness, sun exposure, or hormonal changes, causing the characteristic painful blisters. Some key points to consider about cold sores include:
- They are highly contagious through direct contact, especially when blisters are present 1
- Antiviral medications like acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (Valtrex), or famciclovir (Famvir) can help reduce healing time when started at the first sign of symptoms 1
- Over-the-counter creams containing docosanol (Abreva) may also help
- Avoiding kissing and sharing personal items during outbreaks is important to prevent spreading the infection to others 1. It's worth noting that while there are various treatments available, the aim of antiviral therapy is to block viral replication to enable shortening the duration of symptoms and accelerate the resolution of lesions 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Cold sores are small, painful ulcers that you get in or around your mouth The location of cold sores is typically in or around the mouth.
- They are usually found on the lips, mouth, or surrounding areas. 2
From the Research
Location of Cold Sores
- Cold sores, also known as herpes simplex labialis, typically occur on the lips 3.
- They can present as a painful vesicular eruption, forming unsightly crusts, which cause cosmetic disfigurement and psychosocial distress 3.
- Herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores, is found throughout the world and can affect people of all ages 3.
- In addition to the lips, herpes simplex virus can also cause infections in other parts of the body, such as the genitals 4, 5, 6.
Other Types of Herpes Simplex Infections
- Genital herpes is a prevalent and often disabling condition that can be treated with antiviral medications such as valacyclovir 4, 5.
- Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is a painful condition that can be treated with antiviral medications such as valacyclovir 4.
- Herpes simplex virus type 1 can cause more severe symptoms in immunocompromised patients and has shown higher rates of resistance to commonly used antiherpetics 7.