R.M.Jones Pharmacy
Cold sores are a common nuisance that many of us will deal with at some point in our lives. Often appearing at the worst possible time, these small, fluid-filled blisters can be painful, unsightly, and frustrating. At R.M. Jones Pharmacy in Hereford, we’re here to support you with professional advice and effective treatments, including over-the-counter cold sore cream, to help you manage outbreaks quickly and confidently.
Here’s everything you need to know about cold sores – from what causes them to how you can treat and prevent them.
What Are Cold Sores?
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). This virus is highly contagious and typically contracted in childhood, remaining dormant in the body for life. While many people carry the virus, not everyone experiences visible outbreaks.
Cold sores usually appear on or around the lips and mouth, but they can sometimes affect other areas of the face. The sores often begin with a tingling or burning sensation, followed by the development of blisters that eventually burst and scab over.
Common Triggers for Cold Sores
Once the herpes simplex virus is in your system, it can reactivate and cause outbreaks when triggered by certain factors. Common cold sore triggers include:
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Stress
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Fatigue or lack of sleep
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Illnesses such as colds or flu
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Exposure to sunlight or wind
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Hormonal changes (e.g., menstruation)
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Injury to the lips (e.g., from dental work or chapped lips)
Identifying your personal triggers can help reduce the frequency of outbreaks and give you a chance to start treatment early.
Recognising the Symptoms
Cold sores go through several stages:
1. Tingling and itching – You may feel a tingling or burning sensation around your lips, usually a sign that a cold sore is developing.
2. Blistering – Small fluid-filled blisters begin to form, often in clusters.
3. Weeping and crusting – The blisters burst, releasing fluid, and then crust over.
4. Healing – The scab gradually shrinks and falls off, usually within 7–10 days.
Cold sores can be uncomfortable, but for most people, they are not serious. However, the first outbreak is often the most severe and may be accompanied by fever, swollen glands, and a sore throat.
Treating Cold Sores with Us
While cold sores will generally heal on their own, starting treatment early can significantly shorten the duration and ease the discomfort. At R.M. Jones Pharmacy in Hereford, we stock a range of trusted cold sore creams and antiviral treatments to help manage symptoms effectively.
If eligible, we provide Welsh NHS-funded medications at no cost through the Common Ailment Service.
Cold Sore Cream – Your First Line of Defence
Over-the-counter cold sore cream is most effective when applied at the first sign of an outbreak—during the tingling or itching phase. These creams contain antiviral ingredients such as aciclovir, which help stop the virus from multiplying and reduce healing time.
To use the cream effectively:
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Apply it as soon as you notice symptoms (don’t wait for blisters to appear).
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Dab the cream onto the affected area gently, using a clean finger or cotton bud.
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Wash your hands before and after each application to avoid spreading the virus.
Our pharmacy team can help you choose the right product and explain how to use it properly for the best results.
Other Supportive Treatments
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, we may also recommend:
Cold sore patches – Transparent dressings that protect the sore and aid healing.
Pain relief – Mild painkillers or soothing gels can help relieve discomfort.
Lip balms with SPF – Sunlight is a common trigger, so protecting your lips can help prevent future outbreaks.
We’re always available to discuss your symptoms in confidence and offer personalised recommendations based on your needs.
Preventing Future Outbreaks
While there’s no cure for the herpes simplex virus, you can take steps to reduce the risk of cold sore flare-ups:
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Keep your lips moisturised and protected from the sun with SPF lip balm.
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Manage stress through rest, exercise, and relaxation techniques.
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Eat a balanced diet and stay well hydrated.
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Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, lip balm, or utensils during an outbreak.
If you suffer from frequent or severe cold sores, speak to our pharmacy team. We may refer you to your GP to discuss longer-term treatment options, including oral antiviral medication.
Visit R.M. Jones Pharmacy for Cold Sore Treatment in Hereford
Cold sores can be irritating and uncomfortable, but you don’t have to suffer in silence. At R.M. Jones Pharmacy in Hereford, we offer quick, discreet, and expert support to help you treat cold sores effectively and get back to feeling your best.
Whether you need fast-acting cold sore cream, advice on symptom relief, or help managing recurring outbreaks, we’re here for you. No appointment is needed—just pop in and speak to one of our friendly pharmacists.
This blog was written on behalf of R. M. Jones Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.
