There are multiple sites with photos and explanations of what a cold sore is. One thing that is often unclear is that a cold sore, fever blister and herpes sore are all the same thing. One way to know its a cold sore is by the location, which is typically:
On the lip
At the edge of the lip
But what if the sore is something else? Some other types of mouth ailments to be aware of are:
Chapped lips – difference is the lips are sore all over vs. in certain spots. You can totally avoid this by using SPF 30 lip balm. If your lips get chapped they will heal quickly with use of something like Neosporin, or Neutrogena instant lip remedy. Some evidence shows that SPF lip balm helps prevent cold sores too.
Photo of a canker sore
Canker sore – this is not a cold sore. It is not contagious, and is only INSIDE the mouth or on the tongue. It is very painful. If you have canker sores there are 4 things that definitely help: Take L-Lysine daily 1000 to 2000 mg., avoid foods with high acid content like vinegar, pineapple and most all fruits and juices, and tomato products, & use triamcinolone acetonide, a topical medicine. This is obtained with a prescription from the dentist or doctor. And last but equally important, use toothpaste for canker sore sufferers. I definitely do not work for Rembrandt but they are the only ones I’ve found in over 30 years that have a toothpaste that helps prevent canker sores. Even new ones out there that claim to help have not, but they may help you. Give them a try.
Soreness at the corners of the mouth – or skin cracked at the corners. Also not from herpes. This may be from a vitamin deficiency, acidic foods, or damage caused by sharp food like chips. This heals fairly easily with Neosporin and lip remedies.
This is by no means a complete list of types of mouth sores. If you have other types of sores and are not sure what they are you’d be wise to check with a doctor or a medical help line.
