Question: Hi Dr. ,

I have attached a picture of a bump on my lipline that I am curious about. I cannot tell if it is a coldsore starting or a pimple. I am prone to cold sores (usually only one a year) and I cannot recall ever getting one on my top lip (its usually the same spot- bottom lip on the right). When I first felt this bump about 48 hours ago, I took 2g of Valtrex and 2g again 12 hours later. I've also been taking L-Lysine a couple of times a day. Again, I am not sure it is a cold sore, but am doing this in case. The bump is quite tender and painful and hurts when I smile or move my mouth. It has not gotten much worse since I first noticed it 48 hours ago, just perhaps redder. Ive also been applying warm compresses and coconut oil. Anyway, my question is is this a pimple or a cold sore? I know a cold sore (in my experience) would have "erupted" by now- 48 hours later- but thought maybe thr valtrex and other remedies stopped it from progressing? I'm curious to know what it is for transmission concerns. Thank you!

Hi Dr.

Ok thank you! I do notice that the bump is rather small and looks sort of like a blister. There is not head that I see, or a clear centerand the bump itself is small. Again, looks similar to a blister. Can this still be an acne bump? Thank you!