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Cold Sores
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Mouth Teeth

Cold Sores

Cold sores are caused by the contagious herpes simplex virus (HSV) and typically resolve on their own within a few weeks.

Causes and Transmission

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. This virus infects more than half of the U.S. population by the time they reach their 20s.
  • Type 2: Usually affects the genital area.

Symptoms

Some people have no symptoms from the infection. 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.

Treatment and Management

There is no cure for cold sores. They normally go away on their own in a few weeks. Management options include:

  • Antiviral medicines: Can help them heal faster and prevent cold sores in people who often get them.
  • Pain relief: Ointments that numb the blisters, soften the crusts of the sores, or dry them out.
  • Sun protection: Protecting your lips from the sun with sunblock lip balm can also help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Over-the-counter creams containing numbing agents like lidocaine or benzocaine can help with pain. Some people find relief from applying a cold compress. Products with docosanol (Abreva) can help speed healing if applied early. Avoid picking or squeezing the sore, as this can worsen it and spread the infection.
Cold sores are highly contagious. Avoid direct contact like kissing, sharing eating utensils, drinking glasses, towels, or lip balms while you have a sore. Wash your hands frequently, especially after touching the sore. The virus can spread even when no blister is visible, but it's most contagious when sores are present and oozing.
You should see a doctor if your cold sores are very large, painful, don't heal within two weeks, or spread to your eyes or other parts of your body. Also, consult a doctor if you have a weakened immune system, as cold sores can be more severe and complicated in such cases.
Common triggers include stress, fever, illness (like a cold or flu), sun exposure, wind, hormonal changes (like menstruation), and dental work. To help prevent outbreaks, manage stress, protect your lips from the sun with SPF lip balm, and consider antiviral medication if you experience frequent or severe outbreaks, as prescribed by your doctor.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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