What Are the Symptoms of Cold Sores?
The symptoms of cold sores include:
- Fluid-filled blisters or red, painful, burning, or itching sores that are typically on or near your mouth, or on your fingers
- Swollen, sensitive gums of a deep red color
- A fever, flu-like symptoms, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck often come along with the first attack; recurrent sores usually don't produce these symptoms.
- Tingling and itching in the area of a prior outbreak
Call Your Doctor About Cold Sores If:
- You develop a high fever or chills; high fevers can be serious and need medical care right away.
- Your sores are very painful; you may be able to get prescription relief.
- Your cold sores start to spread; antiviral agents may be needed.
