Course of a cold sore infection

Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are a common and contagious viral infection caused mainly by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). During the life cycle of a cold sore, it goes through eight different stages. We would like to provide you with valuable knowledge about the stages of a cold sore, from the initial infection to the complete healing process. Understanding these stages can help you recognize the first signs of cold sores, take appropriate preventative measures and treat the infection effectively.

Phase 1 - Latency period

The first stage is called the latency period. During this stage, the HSV-1 virus (the virus that causes cold sores) travels to the sensory nerve cells near the site of the initial infection and lies dormant in your body. It is unlikely that you will have any symptoms.

Phase 2 - Prodromal stage

The second stage is the prodromal stage. For most people, this is the first sign of a cold sore and the best stage to treat the virus. Most likely you will feel a tingling or itching sensation on your lips or a slight reddening of the skin in the affected area. A preventative product like lipivir® is the best treatment because at this stage you can prevent cold sores from developing.

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Phase 3 - Inflammation

Inflammation is the third stage if you have not already treated your cold sore in the prodromal stage. At this stage, the HSV-1 attacks cells in your lip or mouth and the process of inflammation begins. Although this only lasts about 24 hours, it can still be uncomfortable.

Phase 4 - Bubble formation

The fourth stage is the preliminary stage, in which one or more hard blisters form on (or around) your lips. At this stage, you will most likely see small, fluid-filled blisters called vesicles. These vesicles are highly contagious and contain a high concentration of active virus particles.

Phase 5 - Open lesion stage

In the fifth stage, the cold sore is at its most contagious and is known as the open lesion stage. During this stage, the sore is open and may ooze or even bleed. This can leave painful, shallow open sores or ulcers on the skin. For most people, this stage lasts one to two days.

Phase 6 - Incrustation

The sixth stage is called crusting. When the ulcers begin to heal, a yellowish or brownish crust forms over the cold sore. The crust shields the healing tissue underneath. For most people, this takes a few days and is the first stage of the healing process.

Phase 7 - Healing

The next phase is healing. You will notice that a scab has covered the cold sore and new skin is forming underneath. It is important not to pick at the scab as this can prolong the healing process. Even at this seventh stage, your cold sore is still contagious.

Phase 8 - Post-scab phase

The eighth phase is the post-scab phase. The cold sore has healed and your skin returns to its normal state. The affected area may still be red for a few days.