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Cold Sore

Procedure Overview

This is a viral infection that causes blister-like sores, most commonly on the outer edge of the lip. They are also called fever blisters.

How Are These Numbers Calculated?

The cost information on this website is estimated and is based on roughly 67.6 million claims from a set of insurers and their reported negotiated rates with providers. These estimates are trended to and considered valid through July 1, 2019 based upon claims paid between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2017.

Cost Overview

National Average

$ 77

Florida State Average

73

Our prices are estimates based on an average and may not be your actual costs. Your costs may be higher or lower for a number of reasons, including insurance deductibles, how sick you are, or other factors.

Cost Breakdowns

Our estimated cost information is not a guarantee of payment or benefits. Your actual costs may be higher or lower than the estimate.

Cold Sore

This procedure includes the following steps and procedures. Costs are broken out by step.

STEP 1
Office Visit

A visit with a primary care physician to evaluate your cold sore and determine the best course of treatment

NATIONAL

$ 77

State ()

NA

TOTAL

NATIONAL

$ 77

State ()

What to Expect

Before you see your health care provider, learn more about this procedure, treatment or test. Remember that individual treatment plans and patient experiences may vary. This information is provided to help you understand what may happen during your visit or treatment.

About this Procedure

Cold sores usually begin as blisters and then crust over. The herpes virus can live in your body for years. It only appears as a mouth sore when something triggers it, such as:

  • Another illness, especially if there is a fever
  • Hormone changes (such as menstruation)
  • Stress
  • Sun exposure
  • A medicine that numbs the area such as lidocaine to ease pain. (Do not use in children.)
  • An antiviral medication to treat herpes sores. (However, some experts do not think medicine makes the sores go away sooner.)
  • Steroid gel that you put on the sore.
  • A paste that reduces swelling or inflammation (such as Aphthasol).
  • A special type of mouthwash such as chlorhexidine gluconate (such as Peridex). 

The doctor or nurse will examine you, and closely check your mouth and tongue. You will be asked questions about your medical history and symptoms. Treatment may include:

How to Prepare

Sometimes there are things you can do that may positively affect your outcome. Here are some examples. Be sure to follow any instructions given to you by your provider.

On the Day of the Procedure

  • Avoiding very hot foods or beverages
  • Reducing stress and practicing relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation
  • Chewing slowly
  • Using a soft-bristle toothbrush
  • Visiting your dentist right away if you have a sharp or broken tooth or misfitting dentures

What to Ask

To get the best quality of care, be informed! Don’t be afraid to ask for a clearer explanation or to ask questions. Consider these topics when talking with your provider.

Questions to Ask Your Provider

  • How did I get cold sores?
  • Is there any medicine you would suggest to help with my symptoms?
  • Is there anything I can do to prevent cold sores in the future?

Related Procedures

Here are some other procedures and tests that may relate to your condition, or could serve as alternative options to explore with your provider. Remember that individual treatment plans and patient experiences may vary.

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