Cold Sores

Cold sores, or oral herpes, are small, painful blisters that form on the lips and around the mouth. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus, which is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact or even through indirect contact such as sharing utensils or lip balm. Cold sores can be treated with topical antiviral creams, although they tend to eventually heal on their own. While cold sores may be uncomfortable, they usually clear up in a few weeks and are not dangerous. However, they can recur and can be spread to others, so it’s important to practice good hygiene and preventative measures. Cold sores can also be a sign of an underlying medical condition, so it’s important to consult with a doctor if they worsen or don’t go away.