What does a fever blister look like before it heals?

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Fever blisters, also known as cold sores, are a common condition. According to Mayo Clinic.com, no prevention strategies or cures for fever blisters exist. They appear mostly in the area of the lips, however they have been known to affect the nose, chin, fingers and, on rare occasion, the roof of the mouth or gums.

Cause

Fever blisters occur due to Herpes Simplex virus type 1. Though Herpes Simplex virus causes genital sores, it can occasionally cause fever blisters as well. The infection is transmitted through towels, razors and utensils.

Symptoms

The initial symptoms include a tingling sensation and possible pain at the affected area, followed by the blisters in a couple of days. The blisters when they occur are small, slightly raised, filled with fluid and painful.

Cycle

According to the Mayo Clinic, the cycle of fever blisters can be up to 30 days in total. It can take up to 20 days before the first signs appear once you are infected with the herpes simplex virus, then the fever blister can last from seven to 10 days once it has broken out.

Healing

Once the blisters are formed, they break and ooze out. Finally, a yellow crust forms in the region, which helps in healing the blisters. Once healed, the yellow crust gives way to the new pinkish skin that formed underneath the crust.

Precaution

Fever blisters spread easily, so it is important to stay away from children and people with a weakened immune system, such as people with eczema or AIDS patients.

Source:

Mayo Clinic: Cold Sore

HerpesOnline.org Oral Herpes

More Information:

Better Health Channel: Blisters

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What does a fever blister look like before it heals?

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