Herpes Simplex (cold sores, fever blisters)
Herpes Simplex (cold sores, fever blisters)
Herpes simplex: Cold Sores Herpes labialis is an infection caused by the herpes simplex
virus, characterized by an eruption of small and usually painful blisters on the skin of the lips, mouth, gums or on the skin around the mouth. These blisters are commonly called cold sores or fever blisters.
What to look for
Infection occurs in two stages. Most people get stage 1 as a child and develop stage 2 as adults.
- Stage 1: Blisters form on the inside of the mouth then develop into painful ulcers. The gums become swollen and deep red and often the tongue is furred. After this clears, the virus lays dormant until another infection reactivates it – e.g. exposure to a cold, to strong wind or sunshine, stress, fever, menstruation
- Stage 2: A blister or cluster of blisters, forms on the edge of the lip or nearby. The cluster then bursts to become an encrusted cold sore. Sufferers may feel a tingling sensation or numbness as the blisters form – this may also linger after they recede. Sores usually heal after 1-2 weeks
Treatment
Mild cases of the first infection need no treatment. If it recurs, treatment with an antiviral drug e.g. Acyclovir can be useful if the natural defences are impaired. Pressing ice onto ulcers often brings relief but take care not to burn the skin.
For sores outside the mouth, covering the area with a dry powder e.g. baby powder, helps to ease pain. Cold sores are common and while they present no serious risk they are
highly infectious.
The main danger is that during the first infection when the body has no immunity or resistance to the virus, it can easily be spread: e.g.
– touching the ulcers and then touching the eye can lead to a corneal ulcer
– oral/genital contact can lead to herpes genitalis
Keep fingers and hands away from sores and always wash the hands before and after touching the face and eyes.
Risk Factors
Sunlight – Exposure to sunlight or other ultraviolet light is a common trigger for cold sores
Fever – and upper respiratory infections
Hormones – menstruation or other hormonal changes
Stress – physical Stress or fatigue
Medications – that compromise the immune system (chemotherapy) or steroids
HIV – People infected with HIV may also get blisters just inside the lips, on the gums and the roof of the mouth. They are likely to get sores more frequently and these will take longer to heal.
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