Being able to recognize the beginning stages of a coldsore will allow you to act fast, and in turn help you minimize discomfort and speed up healing through the following stages. ColdSoreStages and Symptoms. A first coldsore outbreak can occur anywhere from a few days to two weeks after exposure to HSV-1.The first stage of a coldsore lasts one to two days. 3 Recognizing the beginning stages of a coldsore, even before the blister appears, help you minimize discomfort and speed up healing at each stage. An outbreak of coldsores typically occurs in several stages: 7, 8. Prodromal stage.Good to know: Coldsores are contagious during all of these stages. In the earliest stage of a coldsore outbreak, the virus begins to replicate. This causes an initial irritation, usually a tingling or itching sensation, at the spot where the sore will form. ColdSoreStages. Coldsores, also known as fever blisters, are a common and contagious viral infection caused primarily by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). Coldsores typically occur in stages, but the duration of each stage and the severity of coldsore symptoms can vary. A coldsore typically lasts for one to three weeks . During that time, coldsores go through 5 distinct stages and may differ from the first time someone has a coldsore outbreak to a repeat outbreak. Coldsores are most contagious during the weeping stage. Avoid picking or touching weeping sores to prevent them from worsening, spreading, or becoming infected with bacteria. The final stage of the coldsore is the healing stage. This is when the crusted blister scabs over. To keep the scab soft and to reduce irritation, try using emollients containing zinc oxide or...
