3. The Blister Formation: Cold Sore’s Evident Phase
Suddenly, what began as a mild irritation takes a more definitive shape. The swollen area starts to form small, fluid-filled blisters. They cluster together, creating a distinctive appearance. This is the phase where the cold sore becomes unmistakably visible.
Delving deeper, the reason behind the fluid in these blisters is intriguing. It’s a mixture of the herpes virus, white blood cells, and serum. This cocktail is the body’s attempt to contain and combat the viral spread.
As the blisters enlarge, they can cause discomfort. The skin stretches and tightens, resulting in a painful or burning sensation. The surrounding skin may also feel tender to the touch.
On the surface, these blisters may appear fragile. And they are. They can rupture with even minimal friction, which can be both painful and a potential avenue for the virus to spread.
A crucial point of contemplation here is the highly contagious nature of the virus at this stage. Direct contact can transmit the virus, so understanding and practicing preventive measures is essential. (3)
