What is a cold sore?
Een cold sore is a virus infection that mainly occurs on or around the lips. It is marked by a fluid filled blister that makes the skin red and swollen. The blisters of the cold sore are often very painful.
The Herpes Simplex Virus
Everybody can get a cold sore. Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus and most people get infected by this virus during their youth. Not everyone with the herpes simplex virus actually gets a cold sore.
How do I get a cold sore?
Generally, people are at higher risk of a cold sore when they are exposed to certain cold sore triggers, such as a low immune system, a cold or stress. When a cold sore occurs, you can usually recognize it by a tingling, painful and burning sensation on the lip.
De 4 phases of a cold sore
A cold sore typically runs through 4 phases. The cold sore is contagious in every phase. Usually a cold sore takes 7 to 10 days, but sometimes it takes up to 2 weeks. If it lasts longer than 2 week, it is advised to contact a doctor.
