Don't know how or why you started getting cold sores? You're not alone. Most cold sore sufferers aren't sure exactly when they first encountered the virus because Herpes Simplex Virus is usually contracted early in childhood.

Unfortunately, once you contract the virus, your body's immune system cannot completely get rid of the infection. So it remains in your body, usually hidden in a nerve located near your cheekbone. During a cold sore outbreak, typically triggered by factors such as sun exposure, stress, fatigue or hormones, the virus "wakes up" and eventually becomes a visible and highly contagious sore, usually on or around the lip area.

Although ABREVA® can help shorten your cold sore's lifecycle, start using ABREVA when you feel that first telltale sensation of a cold sore. The sooner you start treatment, the faster ABREVA can speed healing.

From beginning to end, the typical cold sore lasts between eight and ten days once you begin to feel symptoms. But for some, cold sores may stick around for two weeks. Unfortunately, even one day with a cold sore can disrupt your lifestyle and rattle your confidence.

While there is no cure for the infection, there is a way to treat it. ABREVA works throughout your cold sore's lifecycle to shorten healing time every step of the way. But remember, to ensure the best results, grab your ABREVA at the very first tingle and use it exactly as directed on the package.

Or, if you know what triggers your cold sores, such as stress or fatigue, keep your ABREVA handy and start using it at the first sign of a cold sore. Since ABREVA's the only cold sore medicine that works on cold sores deep within the skin, where they start, you'll be ready to break that cold sore cycle and heal that cold sore FAST.

	Days 1–2: The Tingle Stage Before any visible symptoms appear, you may feel a tingle, itch and/or burning sensation. The infection is contagious even at this stage, so avoid close physical contact. Start using ABREVA at this stage for best results.
	Days 2–4: The Blister Stage The blister appears. A group of small painful lumps multiply and/or become enlarged. White blood cells travel to the blister and help fight the infection. The cold sore blister fills with fluid and contains millions of virus particles
	Day 4: The Ulcer Stage During the ulcer stage (typically the most painful), you'll notice a shallow cold sore develop. A red ring of inflammation around the affected area may also appear. Keep using your ABREVA to heal and relieve— It's not too late!
	Days 5–8: The Scabbing Stage As your cold sore dries out, a golden-brown crust appears and forms a scab. As the scab shrinks, you may experience painful cracks that can bleed. Severe itching and/or burning is also common. ABREVA eases the discomfort as it heals.
	Days 8–10: The Healing Stage As the cold sore heals and your scab starts to come off, you may experience some dry flaking and residual swelling. Your skin may also remain slightly pink or red. Typically, cold sores heal within eight to ten days, but in some cases may last up to two weeks. Hopefully, you're using your ABREVA!