What Are Cold Sores?
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. They cause small groups of blisters filled with fluids around and on the lips. Once these blisters break, you may notice a scab in a couple of days. After 2 to 3 weeks, the scab will disappear without any visible scar. Since it is a viral disease, the condition may be spread through close contact, such as hugging, kissing, or sexual intercourse. There is currently no cure, but some treatment options are available to help manage the symptoms effectively as well as reduce the severity, duration, and frequency of outbreaks in the future. [2]
