Cold sores and pimple are two common skin complaints with very different causes. Cold sores result from infection with one of two types of the herpes simplex virus. Pimples, according to dermatologist Andrea L. Zaenglein in the 2008 edition of "Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine," result from a confluence of four factors--accumulation of dead skin cells, excess oil production, skin inflammation and the presence of a bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes. Although cold sores and pimples strike some of the same areas, you can usually distinguish between the two on the basis of history and visual inspection.
Step 1
Ask the person about any associated symptoms. Cold sores are associated with tingling, itching or burning pain and, sometimes, a mild, flu-like illness. Pimples are typically tender to touch, but otherwise painless. Pimples do not cause a flu-like illness.
Step 2
Position the person in front of an excellent light source.
Step 3
Examine the affected area carefully. Cold sores present as floppy blisters filled with transparent, thin, yellow-tinged fluid or irregular, red, weeping open sores. Pimples present as tense, solid red bumps filled with opaque, thick, white fluid, that may or may not be visible through the pimple's surface.
Step 4
Ask about the history of any skin signs you observe. Cold sores follow characteristic stages that can be used to distinguish them from pimples.
Step 5
Refer the person to a primary care doctor or dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis.
Tips and Warnings
- In the June 9, 2008, edition of "Archives of Internal Medicine," dermatologist Christina Cernik explains that cold sore blisters last about three or four days. They often rupture spontaneously or in response to light touch, leaving behind the open sore described in Step 3. After one day, the sore begins to acquire a grainy, yellow-brown crust. A skin lesion that adheres to this time frame suggests a cold sore, as does a skin lesion with this type of crust. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, cold sores usually heal within 10 to 14 days and recur in just 20 percent of people. Pimples can last longer and frequently recur.
- Talk to your doctor before using over-the-counter, or OTC, treatments for your symptoms. Some OTC medications for cold sores, such as docosanol, can make acne worse. Similarly, some OTC medications for acne, such as benzoyl peroxide, can make cold sores worse. Do not pick or play with any skin lesions because this increases your risk of scarring and secondary infections.
Things You'll Need
- Light source
References
- "Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine, 7th Edition"; Klaus Wolff, M.D. et al.; 2008
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Oral Health in America--A Report of the Surgeon General
- "Archives of Internal Medicine"; The Treatment of Herpes Simplex Infections; Christina Cernik, M.D., et al.; June 9, 2008
