Cold sores
Request an online visit for Cold sores. A licensed provider reviews your case and prescribes treatment when appropriate.
See our dedicated Cold sores program → — pricing, insurance details, and full medication list.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Ikechukwu Ogbu, MD
MD · Board-Certified, Internal Medicine · Last reviewed June 2026
About Cold sores
Cold sores (oral herpes) are caused by herpes simplex virus type 1, less often type 2. After primary infection — often in childhood — the virus stays latent in the trigeminal ganglion and reactivates as clusters of painful vesicles on or around the lips, frequently triggered by sun exposure, stress, illness, or hormonal change. Most outbreaks resolve in 7–10 days. Antiviral therapy (acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir) started at the earliest prodrome — tingling or itching — shortens episodes; daily suppressive therapy is an option for frequent recurrences.
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