In this article, you will learn the most common of cold sore symptoms. And, you will probably find that your symptoms are similar.

There are one-time symptoms you get when you are initially infected with the herpes simplex virus. They are sore throat, fever, headaches and overall flu-like feeling. These symptoms only last about two or three days.

It is rare that you will get cold sores, fever blisters or oral herpes during first exposure.

From now on, cold sores will occur at the original infection site each time the herpes virus becomes active. No symptoms appear as long as the virus remains dormant.

Here is a brief roundup of the main cold sore symptoms.

1. INITIAL WARNING OF IMPENDING COLD SORES

Your first indication of a possible sore is quite mild and often ignored. This first symptom will be noticeable in the area where you get cold sores. These include a slight tingling and itching sensation.

Your target area may feel dry. If you have lip balm, you will desire to use it.

You are aware that something is afoot beneath the skin. You are right. The herpes simplex virus is at the surface and infecting many cells for the purpose of replication.

Applying ice, or anything cold, at this time will provide comfort. Also, it could discourage the herpes simplex virus - or stop it completely.

2. BUMPS AND SWELLING

Some painful, tiny, red bumps will form. Sometimes they are mistaken for acne pimples. Then the affected cells will become swollen with the new virus particles.

Some fever and headaches are common at this point. There are lymph glands under the jaw on each side. Usually the gland nearest the sore will inflame and enlarge as it fights the virus.

3. OPEN WOUND APPEARS

Once the cells are full, they are destroyed, leaving a gaping wound. Now your sore will weep a clear liquid because your body tries frantically to wash the virus away.

This can be quite a painful period. Cold sores, oral herpes and fever blisters are created on the end of the nerves. When the sore bursts open, the nerve endings are exposed.

You are very contagious for the entire duration of cold sores, but this is the worst time. The fluid weeping from the sore is absolutely swarming with fresh virus looking for a new home.

4. FINALLY HEALING STARTS

Once the sore breaks open, it begins the healing period. You should notice improvement every day now.

Your body will scab-over the wound, and starts to replace the damaged cells underneath. If the scab becomes dry, it will crack when you smile or chew. This hurts a lot, and can slow down the healing process.

To help keep the scab soft and pliable, apply virgin olive oil.

5. FINAL HEALING PERIOD

The crust will last approximately a week, depending on your healing speed. When it finally disappears, there will be fresh new skin underneath.

But please use caution.

You will notice a redness to the area. This means it is still healing below the skin. There is still herpes simplex virus lurking around - making you contagious until the redness disappears.

Your previously swollen lymph glands should be back to normal now.

The final healing period seems to drag on forever. You are feeling much better and looking OK but are still infectious.

And, if you are not cautious, cold sores can reoccur quickly during this final healing process.

These are the primary cold sore symptoms that most people experience. I would expect that they are a close match for your symptoms also. If not, perhaps it would be wise to see your doctor.

Keep reading and learning about cold sores. New things are being discovered everyday. There truly are some amazing cold sore treatment options that can stop or prevent cold sore symptoms completely.

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