Sun, 03 May 2026 11:33:50 +0000

Do You Think It’s a Cold Sore? The Pain of a Canker Will Shock You If you’ve ever woken up with a burning, stinging sensation near your lips or inside your mouth, you may have wondered: Is this a cold sore or a canker sore? Though both cause discomfort, their causes, symptoms, and treatments differ significantly. Understanding the distinction can help you identify the right solution fast and relieve pain more effectively. ### Cold Sore vs. Canker Sore: Key Differences Cold Sore (Fever Blister)
- Cause: Typically caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which is highly contagious.
- Location: Usually appears on or around the lips, often beginning with a tingling or itching sensation before blister formation.
- Appearance: Starts as small, clear blisters that pop and crust over; may ooze fluid.
- Symptoms: Burning, tingling, and tingling pain before blisters emerge; can spread to surrounding skin.
- Contagious: Yes — can spread through kissing, sharing utensils, or touching the sore.
- Duration: Typically heals in 7–10 days, sometimes with antiviral treatments.