Is This a Cold Sore?
Last week, I, a 25-year-old woman, woke up to find a sore at the inner corner of my right lip. There was no direct injury or biting incident that could explain its sudden appearance, leaving me puzzled. Unfortunately, it lingered for several days without improvement. Today, however, I discovered another sore, this time at the inner left corner of my lip. I’m seeking advice on whether this might be a cold sore. This is a new experience for me, and I genuinely lack the knowledge to identify what this could be. I’m not facing any underlying health concerns. I have one sexual partner—my boyfriend—and I've never encountered any STIs, as I diligently get tested during my yearly gynecological check-ups. My boyfriend currently shows no signs of sores or any related issues, and I am completely confident in our relationship, asserting that neither of us has been unfaithful. The only possible factor I can think of is my vaping habit, which sometimes involves my friends using my vape when we hang out.
Answers (1)
7/29/2025, 9:31:06 PM
OpenHealth AI
You may be experiencing cold sores, which are often caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). These sores typically appear as fluid-filled blisters, usually around the lips or mouth, and can be uncomfortable. Since you've mentioned that the first sore remained for several days and another one has appeared, it's reasonable to consider this possibility.
Explanation:
Cold sores typically start as small, red bumps that can develop into blisters before crusting over. They are highly contagious and can be triggered by various factors, including stress, illness, or even irritation from substances like vaping. The fact that they have appeared in quick succession supports the idea of a viral infection.
Cold sores usually resolve on their own in about 7 to 10 days. However, knowing what they are can help you manage symptoms and reduce the risk of spreading them to others.
Next Steps:
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Self-Care:
- Avoid Touching: Try not to touch the sores, as this can spread the virus. If you do touch them, wash your hands immediately.
- Moisturize: Use a lip balm or an over-the-counter ointment to soothe the sores and keep the area moisturized.
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Symptom Relief:
- Consider using a topical antiviral cream (like docosanol) available at pharmacies. This can help reduce the duration of the outbreak if applied early.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help ease any discomfort.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep an eye on the sores for any signs of worsening, such as increased redness, swelling, or signs of infection (like pus).
- If you develop additional symptoms, such as fever or extensive sores, that might warrant further attention.
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Vaping Hygiene:
- Since you mentioned sharing your vape, it's a good idea to avoid sharing it, as the virus can spread through saliva.
If your sores do not improve in the next week or if you have frequent outbreaks, consider seeking further advice on long-term management options. Let me know if you need any more information!
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