When should you see a doctor about a cold sore or herpes outbreak?

When should you see a doctor about a cold sore or herpes outbreak?

Cold sores and herpes outbreaks are very common and usually harmless, but that doesn't mean you should always deal with it alone. In some cases, it's important to seek medical attention, either to get a proper diagnosis, preventative treatment, or to rule out more serious conditions.

In this blog post, we guide you on when it makes sense to contact your doctor and what you can expect from the treatment.

What is normal during a herpes outbreak?

A typical outbreak of HSV-1 (cold sores) or HSV-2 (genital herpes) goes something like this:

• First phase: Tingling, burning and tension in the skin
• Second stage: Small blisters that burst and form ulcers
• Third phase: Scab and healing (7–10 days)

Most people experience mild symptoms and eventually learn to recognize and manage outbreaks themselves – many use QUR's herpes gel, which is effective and reduces the extent and duration of your outbreaks. It soothes and promotes the healing phase – use it as soon as you feel an outbreak coming on.

But when should you seek medical attention?

1. At first outbreak

If you have never had herpes before, it is important to get a proper diagnosis. The symptoms can be similar to other skin conditions – such as ringworm, eczema or impetigo.
The doctor can take a sample from the wound and give you proper guidance and possibly antiviral treatment.

2. If you have very severe or frequent outbreaks

Some people experience outbreaks every month – or outbreaks that last longer than 2 weeks. This may be a sign that your body needs long-term antiviral treatment.
Your doctor may prescribe medications such as acyclovir or valaciclovir for daily use.

3. If the wounds don't heal

A cold sore should go away in 10–14 days. If it lasts longer, gets worse, or oozes a lot, it may be infected – and should be evaluated by a doctor.

4. If herpes spreads or appears in new places

For example, in the eyes, on the hands or on the face in children and people with weakened immune systems. Herpes in the eye (herpes keratitis) can be serious and requires immediate ophthalmological attention.

5. If you are pregnant and have genital herpes

It is important to talk to your doctor or midwife, as herpes during childbirth can infect the baby. Preventive treatment is often given in the last trimester.

6. If you feel sick and have a fever, headache or swollen lymph nodes

Especially during the first outbreak, you may experience flu-like symptoms – and medical treatment may be necessary.

When can you handle it yourself?

• Known and common outbreaks
• Short duration (less than 10 days)
• No serious accompanying symptoms
• Improvement when using herpes gel

Conclusion

Although herpes is often a mild and manageable virus, there are cases where medical evaluation is necessary – especially for the first outbreak, severe symptoms, or if the virus appears in the eye or during pregnancy.
Listen to your body – and seek help when necessary. In many cases, however, you can manage an outbreak at home with proper care, an effective herpes cream like QUR's herpes gel, and a little patience.