Cold Sores: Causes, Symptoms, and First Aid Treatment

Cold sores—also known as fever blisters—are small, fluid-filled blisters that typically appear on or around the lips. They often develop in clusters and may break open after a few days, leaking clear fluid before forming a scab. While uncomfortable and sometimes painful, most cold sores heal on their own within a few days to two weeks.

In climates like Grande Prairie, where winters can be extremely cold and summers surprisingly hot, environmental stressors such as wind exposure, sun, and dehydration can increase the likelihood of cold sore flare-ups. Knowing how to manage cold sores properly is part of basic first aid training.

What Causes Cold Sores?

Cold sores are caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). Unlike many viral infections, HSV can remain dormant in the body for years and reactivate when triggered.

Common Triggers for Cold Sores

Cold sore outbreaks are often triggered by physical or environmental stressors, including:

• Emotional or physical stress
• Illnesses such as colds or influenza
• Fatigue or lack of sleep
• Weakened immune system (chemotherapy, steroids, HIV/AIDS)
• Hormonal changes (such as menstruation)
• Weather exposure, including cold winter winds or intense summer sun

Grande Prairie’s seasonal extremes—very cold winters and hot, dry summers—can both contribute to flare-ups, especially when lips become dry or cracked.

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Symptoms of Cold Sores

Cold sores are usually easy to recognize. Common symptoms include:

• Small red blisters on the lips, chin, cheeks, or near the nostrils
• Tingling or burning sensation before blisters appear
• Blisters that burst and crust over
• Pain or discomfort around the mouth
• Sore throat or painful swallowing
• Fever or fatigue
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

In rare and severe cases, especially if eating or drinking becomes painful, dehydration may occur.

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First Aid Management for Cold Sores

While HSV cannot be cured, proper first aid can help reduce pain, speed healing, and prevent complications.

First Aid Tips for Cold Sores

• Do not pop blisters or pick scabs, as this can cause infection or scarring
• Apply topical antiviral creams as soon as symptoms appear
• Use cold compresses or ice wrapped in a cloth to reduce pain and swelling
• Apply cold sore patches to protect the area and promote healing
• Stay hydrated, especially during hot summer months

These first aid skills are commonly taught in standard first aid courses, which cover everyday medical issues alongside more serious emergencies.

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Learn Everyday First Aid Skills in Grande Prairie

Cold sores may be common, but knowing how to manage them properly is part of being prepared for everyday health situations. Grande Prairie First Aid offers certified training that includes wound care, infection prevention, and other practical skills useful year-round.

👉 Learn more about Emergency First Aid Courses
👉 Explore Standard First Aid Training
👉 View all available First Aid Training in Grande Prairie

Whether it’s managing cold sores in winter or dehydration risks during hot summers, first aid training helps you respond with confidence.