Symptom 2: Formation of Blisters
Post the tingling, the next stage unfolds: the formation of blisters. These aren’t your everyday blisters. Small, filled with fluid, and often clustered, they present a visual evolution of the viral activity. Their appearance can vary, with some being discreet and others more pronounced, covering more extensive parts of the lips or face.
Upon closer examination, the blisters may appear dewy due to the fluid within. This fluid is teeming with the herpes simplex virus, making the blisters the most contagious part of a cold sore outbreak. The skin around these blisters feels stretched, tight, and sore, adding to the discomfort.
The blisters’ visibility can lead to feelings of embarrassment or self-consciousness. Many people report a change in their social behavior during an outbreak, sometimes opting to avoid social interactions or even work commitments. The prominence of these blisters, especially when clustered, can indeed be distressing.
The blistering stage can be uncomfortable. Seeking relief through cooling agents or specialized cold sore creams can ease the tension in the skin. Keeping the area clean and refraining from touching can help avoid secondary infections and speed up the healing process.
For those recurrently plagued by cold sores, the blister phase is a challenging time. However, with experience comes the wisdom of managing them: recognizing their lifecycle, knowing when they’re most contagious, and understanding how to minimize their impact. (2)
