Cold Sore

Question 1

Cold sore - key symptoms (10)

Answer 1

Small lesion on the lip
Prodromal:
- Itchiness
- Burning
- Tingling
- Pain
Eruption:
- Blister
- Redness
- Fluid filled
Crusting
Soreness

Question 2

Cold sore - extra questions (4)

Answer 2

Had before (+ how often)
Any where else?
How many lesions
Immunocompromised

Question 3

Cold sore - explanation

Answer 3

A mild viral infection (self-limiting) on the lip caused by the herpes simplex virus which remains dormant until triggered

Question 4

Cold sore - triggers (5)

Answer 4

Stress
Tiredness
Infection
Sun
Fever

Question 5

Cold sore - first-line treatment (drug, how it works, product, instructions)

Answer 5

Aciclovir (antiviral), Zovirax cream, apply 5 times a day, ideally during prodromal strage
Max 10 days
Wash hands before and after applying

Question 6

Cold sore - lifestyle (5)

Answer 6

Avoid skin contact (kissing)
Avoid sharing towels
Avoid touching other than for treatment
Avoid triggers (e.g use suncream)
Avoid salty or acidic foods

Question 7

Cold sore - referral (6)

Answer 7

Other areas other than the lip or nose
Widespread or severe
Recurrent (>6/year)
Immunocompromised
Pregnant
More than 14 days, or 7 days with treatment