Cold Sore Symptoms - Very Contagious Cold Sores
Sep 17th, 2008 by Denny Bodoh
Cold sore symptoms? In this article you will discover the different stages and symptoms of cold sores and know in advance what to expect from your cold sore symptoms.
Many people want to know if their cold sore symptoms are normal. This is a common concern.
Let me share with you now the most commonly experienced cold sore symptoms you might expect. If yours are different, you may want to see a health care professional.
When first invaded by the herpes simplex virus, you will have some mild cold sore symptoms - such as sore throat, mild fever and head and body aches. These symptoms are often mistaken for a mild flu. They will usually last two to four days.
Most people do not experience cold sores, fever blisters, or oral herpes sores during this first encounter with the herpes virus.
From now on, cold sores will occur at the original infection site each time the herpes virus becomes active. No symptoms appear as long as the virus remains dormant.
Here are the 5 main cold sore symptoms.
1. FIRST WARNING SIGNS.
Your first indication of a possible sore is quite mild and often ignored. This first symptom will be noticeable in the area where you get cold sores. This includes a slight tingling and itching sensation.
Some people experience a dry feeling - like a need for lip balm.
You are aware that something is happening beneath the skin. The herpes simplex virus has awakened and moved to the surface. It is now entering the nerve cells there.
Applying ice, or anything cold, at this time will provide comfort. This great cold sore treatment could discourage the herpes simplex virus - or stop it completely.
2. BLOATED CELLS AND ACNE-LIKE BUMPS.
Some painful, tiny, red bumps will form. Sometimes they are mistaken for acne pimples. The affected cells now will swell with the new virus particles.
Some fever and headaches are common at this point. There are lymph glands under the jaw on each side. Usually the gland nearest the sore will inflame and enlarge as it fights the virus.
3. OPEN SORE DEVELOPS.
Once the cells are full, they destruct, leaving a gaping wound. Now your sore will weep a clear liquid because your body tries frantically to wash the virus away.
This can be quite a painful period. The herpes simplex virus creates cold sores, fever blisters and oral herpes on the end of the nerves. When the sore bursts open, the nerve tips are exposed for a short time.
Also, this is the most contagious stage for cold sores. Millions of new viruses are looking for a new place or person to infect.
4. NOW THE HEALING BEGINS.
Once the sore breaks open, it begins the healing period. You should notice improvement every day now.
Your body will scab-over the wound, and starts to replace the damaged cells underneath. If the scab becomes dry, it will crack when you smile or chew. This hurts and can slow down the healing process.
Apply extra virgin olive oil to the scab to help keep it soft and prevent the cracking.
5. COMPLETION OF THE HEALING TIME.
Usually the scab will last about a week or so. When it falls off, new skin will appear.
But please use caution.
The area of new skin will probably have redness to it. This indicates that healing continues below the skin. Herpes simplex virus is still present. You are contagious until all the red is gone.
Your lymph glands should no longer be swollen and quite close to normal again.
Your final healing will feel like it is dragging on forever. It is quite frustrating because you feel and look well, but are still able to infect someone else.
And, if you are not cautious, cold sores can reoccur quickly during this final healing process.
There you have it. These are the most common cold sore symptoms. They should closely match your symptoms. If your symptoms are quite a bit different, then see your health care consultant.
Also, keep reading and researching. With what we know today, you should no longer have to suffer cold sore symptoms. There is some amazing cold sore treatment options that can possibly eliminate your cold sore symptoms.
