Fast cold sore relief, from anywhere in the U.S.

Cold sores (herpes simplex) are caused by a virus and appear on the outside of the mouth or lips. They typically start with tingling and then develop into painful fluid-filled blisters. Canker sores (aphthous ulcers) appear inside the mouth and are not contagious. Your provider can help distinguish between the two during your telehealth visit.

Without treatment, cold sores typically last 7–10 days. With antiviral medication started early (ideally at the tingling phase), the duration may be shortened to 5–7 days, and severity can be reduced. Even if blisters have already formed, antivirals can still help speed healing and reduce pain.

Common triggers include stress, fever, cold exposure, intense sunlight, a weakened immune system, or friction from dental work. Once you have the herpes simplex virus, it can reactivate periodically. Your provider can discuss triggers and strategies to reduce outbreak frequency.

Yes. If you experience frequent cold sore outbreaks, your provider may prescribe suppressive antiviral therapy to reduce outbreak frequency and severity. Talk with your provider about whether this is appropriate for your situation.

Yes, if your insurance covers telehealth. You'll pay your plan's copay. If you prefer to pay out-of-pocket and avoid insurance, the visit costs $160 flat.

No. During a video visit, you are not in direct physical contact with your provider, so transmission is not possible. Your provider will discuss contagion precautions for when you interact with others during your outbreak.