1. Tingling
This is the best phase to start treatment.
2. Redness and swelling
Redness and swelling usually follow quickly.
3. Blistering
An outbreak of very small, red, fluid-filled blisters that form a cluster. This stage is the most infectious.
4. Weeping
The cold sore may weep or burst, leaving a shallow ulcer. This stage can be the most painful.
5. Scabbing
The cold sore dries and scabs over, forming a crust. This can often be unsightly and cause embarrassment.
6. Healing
The cold sore heals, leaving scabs which eventually flake off, usually without scarring.
What are the signs and symptoms?
Cold sores can be tender and painful. Many people who get cold sores know when one is coming by a tingling, burning, itchy or painful sensation or redness around their lips or mouth. This first stage can happen very rapidly.
After areas of redness and swelling develop, blisters form, then ooze (weep) and dry. Then a yellow crust forms and eventually falls off, uncovering pink-coloured skin that heals without a scar. This whole process if untreated, usually takes 5-6 days with a range of 2-20 days3.
Reference
3.Spruance S et al , J Am Acad Dermatol 2006: 55;47-53.
