Cold sores can often be diagnosed based on how they look, your symptoms, and your medical history. During an online visit, your provider can ask about symptoms such as tingling, burning, or blisters and whether you've had similar outbreaks before.

If the diagnosis isn't clear or testing is needed, your provider may recommend in-person care. A sample from a blister can sometimes be tested to confirm the diagnosis.

Prescription antiviral medications used to treat cold sores include:

• Acyclovir (Zovirax), oral or topical
• Valacyclovir (Valtrex), oral
• Famciclovir (Famvir), oral
• Penciclovir (Denavir), topical
• Acyclovir/Hydrocortisone (Xerese), topical

Your provider can recommend the most appropriate option based on your symptoms, how often you get cold sores, and your medical history.

There isn't one cold sore medication that's best for everyone. Your provider may recommend an oral antiviral such as valacyclovir, acyclovir, or famciclovir based on your symptoms, how often you get cold sores, and your medical history.

The right treatment can also depend on whether you're treating a current outbreak or trying to reduce frequent recurrences.

Antiviral treatment works best when started as early as possible, ideally when you first notice warning signs such as tingling, itching, or burning around your lips.

You don't need to wait for a blister to fully develop before talking to a provider. Starting treatment early may help shorten the outbreak and reduce symptoms.

Yes. If you get cold sores frequently, your provider may recommend antiviral medication to help reduce how often outbreaks occur.

During your visit, your provider can review your outbreak history, previous treatments, and medical history to determine whether ongoing treatment may be appropriate.