A lot of people are concerned if their cold sore symptoms are similar to what others suffer - and rightly so.

Below I would like to share with you the cold sore symptoms most people experience. Quite likely yours will be quite similar.

There is a specific set of cold sore symptoms that occur at first infection, and never again. These symptoms often mimic the flu. Sore throat, fever, headaches and lethargy are common. This only lasts a couple days.

It is rare that you will get cold sores, fever blisters or oral herpes during first exposure.

From now on, cold sores will occur at the original infection site each time the herpes virus becomes active. No symptoms appear as long as the virus remains dormant.

Here is a brief roundup of the main cold sore symptoms.

1. INITIAL WARNING OF IMPENDING COLD SORES.

The first sign of upcoming cold sores is almost undetectable. The target area where the sore will appear starts to feel uncomfortable. You might notice an itching or tingling feeling.

You may experience a dry feeling that causes you to use a lip balm.

You are aware that something is afoot beneath the skin. You are right. The herpes simplex virus is at the surface and infecting many cells for the purpose of replication.

It would be wise to apply ice or some cold object as a cold sore treatment method. This will provide comfort. But the main benefit is that it discourages - or even stops - the herpes virus from continuing its plan.

2. RED BUMPS AND SWOLLEN CELLS.

The target area will now swell up because the cells are filling with new virus particles. Quite likely you will notice some painful little bumps. These are similar to hard little red pimples.

You might get a slight fever and experience headaches now. Also, the lymph gland under the jaw, on the same side of your face as the sore, will become larger and painful. This shows the body is fighting an infection.

3. ULCERATED OPEN SORE.

Once the cells are full, they destruct, leaving a gaping wound. Now your sore will weep a clear liquid because your body tries frantically to wash the virus away.

This is a very painful time. Cold sores, fever blisters and oral herpes sores grow on the end of the nerves - and the nerve endings are now exposed.

Also, this is the most contagious stage for cold sores. Millions of new viruses are looking for a new place or person to infect.

4. BLESSED HEALING BEGINS NOW.

Once the sore breaks open, it begins the healing period. You should notice improvement every day now.

Your body will begin to create a crust over the sore immediately, and begin replacing the destroyed cells. The crust can become dry and cracking is common. This slows healing and is painful.

To help keep the scab soft and pliable, apply virgin olive oil.

5. COMPLETION OF THE HEALING TIME.

The scab will remain a week or so, giving way to fresh new skin.

But, you must still be careful.

You will notice redness to the area. This means it is still healing below the skin. There is still herpes simplex virus lurking around - making you contagious until the redness disappears.

Your previously swollen lymph glands should be back to normal now.

Exercise patience during the healing phase. It is frustrating because you feel and look fine. But, you must still be cautious because you are still very contagious.

And, if you do not continue to be careful, cold sores can easily reoccur during this period.

Most people have cold sore symptoms very similar to those mentioned above. If your symptoms are much different, I would suggest you consider a visit to your personal health professional.

Keep reading and learning about cold sores. New things are being discovered every day. There truly are some amazing cold sore treatment options that can stop or prevent cold sore symptoms completely.