What Causes Cold Sores?

Posted on Mon, 23 Jun 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 23 Jun 2014 Answered on

Fri, 11 Jul 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello. A couple of days ago I had a bump suddenly appear on the outside of my upper lip under mustache. It's sore when pressed or squeezed and otherwise more just annoying . When squeezed or picked it drains a seemingly endless supply of clear liquid and some blood if squeezed too much or too hard. It will scab over when left alone but this far does not seem to be going away. Any thoughts ,info or suggestions ??

Answered by Dr. Hardik Pitroda (-5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Acyclovir- oral and topical

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you for posting on HCM.
From the review of history and description, it looks like you have got a viral infection called Herpes Labialis or commonly known as Cold sore.
Its a viral infection caused by Herpes simplex virus.
The treatment is pretty easy and straightforward.
I ususally prescribe oral acyclovir 200mg five times a day for 5-7 days.
Apply acyclovir cream and antibiotic cream like mupirocin thrice a day.
Take antipyretic like paracetamol if associated fever is present.
Avoid close physical contact with your partner and other members of famiy for few days as its contagious.
I m sure you will be fine soon.
Thank you
Dr Hardik pitroda
M.D Dermatology

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Hardik Pitroda (8 minutes later)

will or can it clear up on it's own without the medications listed in your answer ??

Answered by Dr. Hardik Pitroda (8 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Treatment decreaes recurrence risk

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Herpes Labialis can resolve on its own but its always advocated to take proper course of antiviral drugs to reduce the chance of recurrence.
Dr Hardik Pitroda

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad