10 Fever Blister Symptoms

By adr.ian

Reviewed: dr. vanta

Article Sources

Article Sources

• 1. 'Blisters.' Blisters - Better Health Channel, www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/blisters
• 2. 'Blisters: Causes, Treatment, Prevention.' Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16787-blisters
• 3. 'Cold Sores; Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention.' Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21136-cold-sores.
• 4. 'Laryngitis.' Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 24 July 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/laryngitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20374262.

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Fever blisters, commonly known as cold sores, are small blisters that usually develop on the lip or around the mouth. They are a common viral infection that can sometimes cause pain and discomfort. Blisters, one of the fever blister symptoms, may break open and leak a clear fluid before healing.

Many fever blisters heal after several days, but they may take up to three weeks to clear up. The cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus, of which there are two types. HSV 1 and HSV 2. Both of these can cause sores on the lips and mouth, but HSV1 is more common.

Tingling Sensation

A fever blister goes through five stages. The first of these stages and a common symptom of cold sores is the tingling sensation an infected person may experience. The sensation usually occurs around 24 hours before the blisters erupt. The tingling is sometimes accompanied by itching or burning sensations.

The tingling sensation is the body's response to the cause of the fever blister, the herpes simplex virus. Although it won't prevent the sore from forming, intervening during the tingling phase may help reduce the severity and duration of the cold sore. Oral medication may be helpful if prescribed by a doctor.