How do cold sores accur?

Herpes virus returns: Cold sores on the lips or near the lips, are usually caused by recurrent oral herpes virus. They start as a slightly raised reddish area, then form a cluster of tiny blisters, which break open soon, leaving a sore (ulcer) to heal up over a week. Sores appear more often when one is under stress or is ill from another illness. Younger babies with herpes should see a doctor when a sore appears.

Virus: Two kinds of these are common, and both caused by virus. Least worrisome, is the aphthous ulcer. Occurs on the soft tissues of the mouth -- inside lips, cheeks, under tongue. The worse one is herpes.The first time you get it, it can be anywhere in the mouth and outside the mouth. After that , in the mouth, it will only be on tight tissues -- roof of mouth, and right along gum line around teeth.