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Read MoreCold sores can be painful, embarrassing, and disruptive to your daily life. While they usually heal on their own, prompt medical treatment can significantly reduce their severity, duration, and frequency. At InMotion Health, we make managing cold sores simple and discreet with same-day in-home or virtual visits and personalized care so you can feel better, faster, without leaving home.
What Are Cold Sores?
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are small, fluid-filled lesions that typically appear on or around the lips. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (usually HSV-1) and are highly contagious, especially when the blisters are open and oozing. While they typically heal on their own within 7–10 days, cold sores can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and disruptive, especially if they occur frequently or are accompanied by other symptoms.
How Are Cold Sores Treated?
At InMotion Health, cold sore treatment begins with a virtual or in-home consultation, where a licensed medical provider will assess your symptoms, review your health history, and evaluate potential triggers or recent exposures. If you’re experiencing frequent or severe outbreaks, we may recommend additional testing or evaluation to rule out underlying conditions.
Your personalized treatment plan may include antiviral medications to reduce the severity and duration of an outbreak, along with pain-relief creams or ointments to ease discomfort. Our goal is to help you heal quickly, reduce recurrence, and manage symptoms discreetly.
Symptoms of Cold Sores
Cold sores often begin as a sensation around the lips or mouth, with a full blistering forming within 24 to 48 hours. Common symptoms include:
- Tingling or itching near the lips
- Fluid-filled blisters
- Oozing and crusting lesions
- Swelling, pain, or redness around the affected area
- Occasional fever, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes (especially during the first outbreak)
What Causes Cold Sores?
Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), though HSV-2 (commonly associated with genital herpes) can also cause oral sores. Once infected, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate due to:
- Illness or fever
- Emotional or physical stress
- Sun exposure or windburn
- Hormonal changes, including menstruation
- Weakened immune system
Because cold sores are contagious, they can spread through kissing, sharing drinks or utensils, or direct contact with an active sore.
Why Is Cold Sore Treatment Important?
Treating cold sores early can make a big difference in your comfort and overall recovery. Prompt care shortens the duration and severity of outbreaks, reduces pain and irritation, and lowers the risk of spreading the virus to others. It also helps prevent complications such as secondary bacterial infections and allows for better management of recurrent outbreaks through suppressive therapy.
How Can I Prevent Cold Sores?
Preventing cold sores involves managing known triggers and maintaining a strong immune system. To reduce the risk of outbreaks, it’s important to avoid excessive sun exposure by using lip balm with SPF, manage stress through relaxation techniques, and get adequate sleep and nutrition. Avoid kissing or sharing utensils, drinks, or lip products with others during an active outbreak. If you experience frequent cold sores, daily antiviral therapy may be recommended.
Who to Trust with Treatment
InMotion Health offers fast, discreet, and effective cold sore treatment without the hassle of going to a clinic. Whether you’re experiencing your first outbreak or dealing with frequent flare-ups, we’re here to provide convenient care when and where you need it. InMotion Health is your trusted partner for managing cold sores; contact us for urgent care, wherever you are.
When in Doubt
If you or someone else is experiencing severe or life-threatening symptoms and you’re unsure whether it’s an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Room. It’s always safer to seek immediate care rather than delay treatment.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is intended to support your care by providing general education and information, but it should not replace guidance from a licensed medical professional. We recommend consulting with one of our trained clinicians—either virtually or through our in-home services—for an accurate evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Meet Your In-Home Expert
Carly Oliveri, PA-C
Lead Provider & Founder
Carly Oliveri is a board-certified Physician Assistant with extensive experience in emergency medicine and urgent care. She earned her undergraduate degree in Health Science from the University of Florida and completed her Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies at the Pace University Lenox Hill Hospital Physician Assistant Program in Manhattan, New York.
Absolutely amazing service! InMotion Health made getting care so easy and convenient. The provider was professional, compassionate, and thorough. Highly recommend for anyone looking for top-notch care at home or virtually!
- Easy and Convenient
I was visiting from out of town and needed urgent care — InMotion Health was amazing! The provider came right to my hotel, handled everything on the spot, and made the process so easy. Professional, friendly, and convenient. Highly recommend for travelers!
- Professional, friendly, and convenient
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Scheduling a consultation with InMotion Health is fast, easy, and designed around your convenience. Our team is ready to care for you from the comfort of your own home. To get started, fill out our online form or call us at (954) 228-3019 to speak with our team directly. We’re here to make healthcare more accessible; schedule your visit or ask questions about our services.
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