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Q For as long as I can remember, I have been getting cold sores and fever blisters for some unexplained reason. I've been told that they are caused by herpes. Please tell me what causes these little, uncomfortable bumps that appear on my lips. I also need to know what, if anything, can be done to treat these frequent outbreaks. K.J., Kansas City

A Fever blisters or cold sores usually are tiny, clear, fluid-filled blisters, which occur on mucous membranes, and doctors say, are caused by the herpes simplex virus--a common viral infection.

Typically, cold sores and fever blisters rarely lead to medical complications and usually disappear in seven to 12 days. Doctors say the frequency with which they appear depends on the person. Some people may experience a cold sore only once in their lifetime, while many others may be affected with frequent recurrences.

Before cold sores and fever blisters appear, the skin may itch or become very sensitive. Ice applied directly to the affected area can reduce the discomfort. Recently developed antiviral drugs, such as acyclovir and famcyclovir, lessen the symptoms and frequency of recurrences for some patients.

# posted by Medical Information : 2:41 AM