Cold sores generally clear up on their own without treatment. However, see your doctor if:
Complications
Cold sores are contagious. They can pass from one person to another through skin-to-skin contact. The greatest risk of infection is from the time the blisters appear until they have completely dried and crusted over. There is a possibility of spreading the virus for some time even after the skin has healed.
If you have a cold sore, avoid close contact with infants, anyone who has eczema (atopic dermatitis) or people with a suppressed immune system, such as people with cancer, AIDS or an organ transplant. These people are at higher risk of more severe infection.
Herpes simplex infection of the eye causes scarring of the cornea and is a leading cause of blindness in the United States.
- You have a pre-existing health condition that has compromised your immune system
- The cold sores don't heal within one to two weeks on their own
- Symptoms are severe
- You have frequent recurrences of cold sores
- You experience irritation in your eyes
Complications
Cold sores are contagious. They can pass from one person to another through skin-to-skin contact. The greatest risk of infection is from the time the blisters appear until they have completely dried and crusted over. There is a possibility of spreading the virus for some time even after the skin has healed.
If you have a cold sore, avoid close contact with infants, anyone who has eczema (atopic dermatitis) or people with a suppressed immune system, such as people with cancer, AIDS or an organ transplant. These people are at higher risk of more severe infection.
Herpes simplex infection of the eye causes scarring of the cornea and is a leading cause of blindness in the United States.