Diagnosing & Treating Cold Sores Online

Cold sores are often referred to as fever blisters. They can be itchy, painful and can make you feel self-conscious, but luckily there are ways to prevent and treat them. About two-thirds of the population gets cold sores, although quite often they are dormant (meaning they are "asleep"). There are also many things that can trigger a cold sore, including sunlight, a fever, stress or even hormonal changes like getting your period. Cold sores are different for everyone. Doctors can help determine the severity of your cold sores and decide if treatment is needed, or if a referral to a specialist is required.

During a video consult on TelaCare your doctor will ask you a series of targeted questions to determine if your symptoms point to cold sores. Then your provider will proceed to determine the best treatment plan for you. Your provider may recommend in-person examination by a specialist if this is needed. Your treatment plan is based on the duration and severity of your symptoms and your medical history.

Our platform has an image upload feature that is extremely helpful for both providers and patients. With this feature, our physicians can get a precise, detailed look at your cold sores before the visit even begins. This feature is also useful for all patients, especially for those that wear makeup – you can take a picture when you have a clean face, save it and upload before your visit!

Once a diagnosis has been made, your doctor will go over the risks and benefits of the various treatment plans.

Options for treatment of cold sores may include:

  • Antiviral creams
  • A cool compress
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Prescription antiviral drugs

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Got Questions? We've got answers.

See below for answers to some of our most common questions. You can also call us anytime 24 hours a day at 1-800-317-0280 to speak to a medical professional about your symptoms or conditions.



 Does TelaCare offer refunds?

No, All sales are final, and no refunds will be offered or accepted on services purchased from TelaCare. As we are a medical benefits company like any other benefit, once you accept our terms and conditions, you have purchased our services and accept this refund policy as a whole. Services can be canceled in the system at your discretion under account settings if your account is completed. Your satisfaction with your purchase is essential to us. If you are unsatisfied with your purchase for any reason, please contact us at support@telacare.com


 Can I get a prescription online?

Yes, in general you can get a prescription online. There is support for this nationwide, however there are several exceptions. 


 If my condition cannot be treated through TelaCare, can I still discuss it with a doctor?

If it is not an emergency condition, yes. Doctors at TelaCare are able to provide medical advice, counsel you about your condition, and help you work through your treatment options.

 What is TelaCare not for?

TelaCare is not for people suffering from serious or life threatening conditions, such as:

    • Seizures
    • Chest pain
    • Neurological symptoms, suggesting a stroke
    • Difficulty breathing
    • Dizziness or loss of consciousness
    • Sudden bleeding
    • Choking or gagging
    • Severe Hypertension or Hemorrhoids
    • Head injury
    • Possible broken bones
    • Cancer
    • Patients who want to hurt themselves (suicidality)
    • Patients who want to hurt others (homicidality)
    • Schizophrenia or hallucinations

    If you have any of the above symptoms or any other serious medical concerns please call 911 or proceed to the nearest emergency department.

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