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Dermatology (Expert Forum)
Is it a pimple or is it a cold sore?
Answered by
Alan Rockoff, MD - dermatology, Child Skin Problems
The Rockoff Dermatology Center
Brookline - MA
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Is it a pimple or is it a cold sore?
by debtqueen, Jan 06, 2005 12:00AM
Each month before my period I get a bump under my nose, or near my lip. It usually tingles and sometimes come to head. However, most times I does not show up like pimple. It is usually hard. When I forcefully pop it some pus does come out and is cloudy. The area is usually sore for a few days and turns red either for me picking or it might be a cold sore. I don't have fever and only get them before my period and never in a cluster. It is usally only one. It sometimes leaves a scar that takes time to heal.
Doctor's Answer
by Alan Rockoff, MD, Jan 06, 2005 12:00AM
, Jan 06, 2005 12:00AM
I can't say for certain. It certainly could be a pimple, and cold sores (herpes) are usually a cluster of blisters, not a single bump. For definitive diagnosis, you'll need to see a doctor when the bump is present (though a good quality photo might help.) If it's a cold sore, antiviral oral or topical medication may help. If it's a pimple, topical antibiotics may be useful. Neither is helped by squeezing. A doctor should be able to set you straight.
Best.
Dr. Rockoff
Best.
Dr. Rockoff
