HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Do Cold Sores Bleed?

default
Posted on Tue, 7 Jun 2016
Question: Hi,
I believe I may have herpes on the top lip but it is unusual in my case because the entire bottom part of the top lip is a light yellow colour, could this be herpes?
I have been applying Zovirax and also taken 4 tablets of valaclovir (four tablets for one day), which was taken for only one day about two days after the first signs of a sore. Still it has been five days since I've taken the valaclovir and the sore has bled recently, is it usual for these cold sores to bleed? What else could be recommended?


Thanks.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Use a topical antibacterial ointment

Detailed Answer:
Hello. Thank you for writing to us

I am dr.kakkar(Dermatologist). I have gone through your query and I have also reviewed the Image

This looks like herpes labialis.
However, sinec you have already rightfully completed the course of Oral antiviral i.e valacyclovir 1gm, 2 does, 12 hours apart, therefore, now I suggest you to just apply a topical antibacterial ointment e.g 2% Mupirocin ointment Or Neosporin ointment, twice daily for a few days.

Regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
default
Follow up: Dr. Dr. Kakkar (17 hours later)
Thanks Dr. Kakkar,

Is the antibacterial ointment applied in case the open sore has led to bacterial infection? Could I still apply the antiviral ointment at the same time given that the sore still seems to be exuding viral-filled liquid, even if it has no effect on healing time would it help to limit contagion?



Regards
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (20 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Antibacterial ointment is to prevent or treat secondary bacterial infection

Detailed Answer:
Hi.

There is no role for topical antiviral in case of herpes labialis. Moreover you have adequately taken Oral antivirals. Antibacterial ointment is applied to prevent Or treat secondary bacterial infection that may have developed.

Regards
Note: Consult a Sexual Diseases Specialist online for further follow up- Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Dr. Kakkar

Dermatologist

Practicing since :2002

Answered : 9612 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Do Cold Sores Bleed?

Brief Answer: Use a topical antibacterial ointment Detailed Answer: Hello. Thank you for writing to us I am dr.kakkar(Dermatologist). I have gone through your query and I have also reviewed the Image This looks like herpes labialis. However, sinec you have already rightfully completed the course of Oral antiviral i.e valacyclovir 1gm, 2 does, 12 hours apart, therefore, now I suggest you to just apply a topical antibacterial ointment e.g 2% Mupirocin ointment Or Neosporin ointment, twice daily for a few days. Regards