Cold Sores
Overview
Virtual care for cold sores, which are common fluid-filled blisters that typically appear on or around the lips. Your provider reviews your history and discusses an individualized plan.
Common symptoms or concerns
- Tingling, burning, or itching before a sore appears
- Fluid-filled blisters on or near the lips
- Crusting as the area heals
When virtual care may be appropriate
- Your symptoms are consistent with recurring cold sores
- You do not have widespread involvement, eye symptoms, or a weakened immune system without guidance
How the virtual visit works
- Book a virtual visit through our secure scheduling system.
- Join a secure video visit with a licensed healthcare provider at your appointment time.
- Your provider reviews your health history and discusses your concerns.
- You receive an individualized care plan, with follow-up arranged if needed.
What your provider may evaluate
- Your symptoms, how long you have had them, and what you have tried
- Your personal and family medical history
- Current medications, supplements, and allergies
- Factors that may be contributing to your concern
- How often sores recur and what tends to trigger them
- Your general health and any conditions that affect healing
Possible treatment options
Treatment options may include prescription or nonprescription therapies when clinically appropriate. Your provider will determine whether a treatment is safe and appropriate after reviewing your health history and completing a clinical evaluation. Prescriptions are never guaranteed.
Options may include nonprescription or prescription therapies when clinically appropriate, often started early in an episode.
When laboratory testing or in-person care may be needed
Some concerns may require laboratory testing, imaging, an in-person examination, or referral to a specialist. Your provider will advise you if your situation is not appropriate for virtual care.
Sores near the eye, widespread involvement, or severe episodes may require in-person evaluation.
When to seek urgent or emergency care
First Priority Clinic does not provide emergency medical services. If you experience a medical emergency — such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, severe bleeding, confusion, or signs of a stroke — call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Insurance & payment
We accept several major insurance plans, and a self-pay option is available. Verify your coverage before your visit.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a prescription through a virtual visit?
A prescription may be considered only when clinically appropriate and after your provider reviews your health history and completes an evaluation. A prescription is never guaranteed.
Can I receive care if I live outside Illinois?
Not at this time. First Priority Clinic currently provides telehealth services to eligible patients located in Illinois.
Are cold sores contagious?
They can spread through close contact. Your provider can review prevention steps as part of your care plan.
Medical disclaimer
This page is educational and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Treatment is individualized. Prescriptions are never guaranteed. Read the full Medical Disclaimer.
Cancellation, no-show, and payment terms apply. Please review our Appointment & Payment Policies before scheduling.
First Priority Clinic does not provide emergency medical services. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Care for cold sores — book a virtual visit
Schedule through our secure Carepatron system. Individualized, professional care — for eligible patients located in Illinois.
