What Are Some Of The Symptoms Of A Cold Sore?

Before a cold sore appears the area will sometimes tingle, feel slightly raised and may appear red and inflamed.

This pain or tingling sensation is called the prodrome (or warning symptom) and typically occurs 1 to 2 days before the cold sore appears.

A cold sore generally appears as a small, fluid-filled blister which goes through a cycle of phases. The blister will usually weep (ulcerate) and form a scab or 'crusting' before healing and disappearing completely.

The duration of a typical cold sore outbreak may last from 8 to 12 days