How to prepare for a video visit about Cold Sores (Herpes Labialis)

Audience: pediatric

Cold sores, also called herpes labialis, are small, painful blisters that usually appear around the lips. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus and are common in children and adults. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help you learn how to manage symptoms and prevent spreading the virus to others. During the visit, the doctor may ask about your child's symptoms, how often cold sores occur, and any treatments used before. Preparing for the visit by gathering information and having a clear view of the affected area can make the appointment smoother. Remember, while telemedicine can help with advice and guidance, it cannot replace in-person care when symptoms worsen or complications arise.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• If your child has a fever higher than 38°C (100.4°F) along with cold sores, seek immediate care.
• If the cold sores spread to the eyes or cause eye pain, get urgent medical attention.
• If your child has a weakened immune system and develops cold sores, contact a healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessing and advising on typical cold sore symptoms.
• Providing guidance on home care and symptom relief.
• Discussing prevention of virus spread to others.
• Determining if in-person care is needed based on symptoms.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing serious complications like eye infection or severe immune-related issues.
• Performing physical treatments or procedures.
• Prescribing medications that require physical examination or monitoring.
• Emergency care for severe symptoms or systemic illness.

What are Cold Sores?

Cold sores are small blisters that usually appear on or around the lips. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). These sores can be painful and may cause itching or burning before they appear. Cold sores often heal on their own within 1 to 2 weeks.

How a Video Visit Can Help

During a video visit, a healthcare provider can look at the cold sores and ask about symptoms. They can provide advice on how to care for the sores, suggest treatments to reduce pain or speed healing, and explain how to prevent spreading the virus to others. The provider can also help decide if further in-person care is needed.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your appointment, make sure you have a quiet, well-lit space for the video call. Have a way to show the cold sores clearly on camera. Write down any questions you have and note when the sores started and if your child has had cold sores before. Also, have a list of any medicines or treatments your child is currently using.

What to Expect During the Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, medical history, and any treatments tried. They will look at the sores through the camera and may give advice on home care, such as keeping the area clean and avoiding touching the sores. They may also discuss when to seek in-person care.

Preventing Cold Sore Spread

Cold sores are contagious, especially when blisters are present. Avoid kissing or sharing items like cups, towels, or utensils with others. Encourage your child to wash their hands often and avoid touching the sores to reduce spreading the virus.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit area for the video call.
• Ensure your device's camera works and can show the cold sores clearly.
• Write down when the cold sores started and any previous episodes.
• List any medicines or treatments your child is currently using.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on home care and treatments.
• Keep the cold sore area clean and avoid touching it.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and note any changes.
• Avoid close contact with others to prevent spreading the virus.
• Schedule an in-person visit if symptoms worsen or new concerns arise.

FAQs

What causes cold sores in children?

Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Children often get the virus through close contact with someone who has an active cold sore.

How can I help my child feel better during a cold sore outbreak?

You can help by keeping the area clean, applying cool compresses, and using over-the-counter pain relievers if appropriate. Avoid acidic or salty foods that may irritate the sores.

Are cold sores contagious?

Yes, cold sores are contagious, especially when blisters are present. They can spread through kissing, sharing utensils, or touching the sores and then touching other parts of the body.

When should I seek in-person medical care for my child's cold sores?

Seek in-person care if your child has a high fever, the sores spread to the eyes, the sores are very painful or do not heal, or if your child has a weakened immune system.

Sources

1. Cold Sores — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Herpes Simplex Virus Infections — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Cold Sores (Herpes Labialis) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Herpes Simplex Virus — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for education and preparation only. It is not a substitute for in-person medical care or diagnosis. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek immediate medical attention.