Cold SoresIntroduction

About Cold Sores

Cold sores (canker sores) are small, painful, fluid-filled blisters or sores that appear on the lips, mouth or nose. They are caused by a virus. The sores can be painful and usually last a few days.  Cold sores can often recur.

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What Are cold Sores?

Cold sores are small, painful, fluid-filled blisters or sores that appear on the lips, mouth or nose that are caused by a virus.

What Causes Cold Sores?

Cold sores are caused by a virus called the herpes simplex virus (HSV).  There are two types of HSV. Learn more about the causes...

How To Treat Cold Sores

Treatments for cold sores include paying extra attention to personal hygiene, over-the-counter (OTC) medication for symptomatic relief, natural remedies and prescription-strength medication.  Learn more about treatments...