According to the National Library of Medicine (NLM), cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus. They indicate that herpes simplex type 1 usually causes oral herpes, referred to as cold sores. Some individuals who have contracted herpes simplex 1 (HSV-1) may not exhibit any symptoms, but others may experience the discomfort associated with the cold sores.
Prodrome Symptoms
The American Social Health Association (ASHA) states some people will experience prodrome, or warning symptoms of herpes cold sores. These effects occur one or two days before the onset of blisters. THe ASHA lists prodrome symptoms such as itching, tingling or pain at the site of the skin where an outbreak will occur.
Blistering
A small, red fluid-filled blister or blister cluster will appear on the lips, chin, cheeks or sometimes on the gums or the roof of the mouth, as indicated by the NLM. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMM) states the lesions are painful and may be accompanied by increased salivation, foul breath and in rare cases trouble swallowing, chills, muscle pain or hearing loss. The ASHA states some users may mistake herpes sores for a crack, cut, chapped lips, bug bite or some other blemish on the skin.
Ulcer
Within a few days the blisters will rupture, creating ulcers. The UMM explains that the ulcers may ooze liquid, pus or blood before healing over with a yellowish scab. While the current blisters are healing, a new blister or cluster of blisters may develop. The healing ulcers may last three to four more days before disappearing entirely.
