Objectives:

After reading this module, you will:

• Be familiar with the symptoms, signs and stages of a cold sore
• Understand the causes of the condition
• Recognise cold sore trigger factors and be able to offer prevention and management advice
• Be aware of the importance of early intervention in treating cold sores and be knowledgeable of the main options available.

What is a Cold Sore?
Cold sores are a common condition caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus, which leads to pain and blistering around the mouth and lips. They usually occur in the same place and people tend to get them two to three times a year on average.[1, 2] All age groups are affected by cold sores but most people have their first attack between the ages of 10 and 19 years.[3]

Signs and symptoms
A cold sore outbreak usually starts with an itching, tingling or burning sensation around the mouth, chin, nose or other areas of the face.[1,3] These first signs may occur between six and 24 hours before the appearance of an actual cold sore.[2]
The first outward sign of a cold sore is usually the appearance of a small red patch at the site of the tingling sesnsation.[2] Gradually, small fluid-filled blisters appear which grow in size and may weep; this takes between one and three days.[1,3] This characteristic cluster of blisters is the key indicator of a cold sore and is usually surrounded by an area of red and swollen skin.[1,3,4] Sufferers might also experience irritation and pain in the affected area.[1] Eventually, the blisters burst, producing the typical open sore.[3] This exposed area will eventually dry up, crust over and form a scab. Most cold sores disappear and the skin returns to normal within 10 days to two weeks of the initial tingling, without any permanent scarring.[1-3]

Cold Sore Stages [3]

 BLISTER                               SORE                         SCAB

<PRACTICE POINT>
How do your customers describe the symptoms of a cold sore?