Some people call it a cold sore, others a fever blister. Herpes simplex virus is the cause of this annoying and often painful chronic condition. Show
The herpes sores (lesions) typically last a week to 10 days. They most often occur on the lips, tongue, roof of the mouth, or the gums. The sores occur first as fluid-filled blisters that burst (rupture) after a day or 2. The sores will ooze fluid that has the virus. After a few days, the sores will form crusts or scabs. The virus is highly contagious and can be spread by skin-to-skin contact such as kissing. What causes an HSV mouth infection?The virus is spread by skin-to-skin contact with someone who carries the virus. Most people with oral herpes were infected during childhood or as young adults from nonsexual contact with infected saliva. It can be passed by kissing, touching the infected person's skin, or sharing infected objects such as lip balm, silverware, or razors. The 2 most common forms of the virus are:
Both types of HSV can infect both the mouth and the genitals. Once infected, a person will have the herpes simplex virus for the rest of their life. When the virus is not active, it is dormant in a group of nerve cells. Some people never have any symptoms from the virus while others have periodic outbreaks of infections. It is not clear what triggers the virus to return. But the risk factors below may play a role:
Recurrent outbreaks are more common in the first year after the initial episode. After that, the outbreaks diminish in frequency and severity as the body builds antibodies to the virus. What are the symptoms of an HSV mouth infection?The initial (primary) infection of the oral herpes simplex virus is often the worst. It may cause severe, flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, and headache. But some people have no symptoms at all. In the initial infection, sores can occur on and around the lips and all over the mouth. Recurring infections tend to be much milder, and the sores often erupt in the edges of the lips. Some people never have any more outbreaks beyond the initial infection. These are the most common symptoms of a recurring oral HSV infection:
The symptoms of an oral HSV outbreak may look like other conditions or health problems. Always see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis. How is an HSV mouth infection diagnosed?Herpes simplex virus may be difficult to diagnose because it may be confused with many other infections, such as allergic reactions. HSV can be confirmed only with a virus culture, blood test, or biopsy. A healthcare provider can often diagnose it based on where the blisters are and how they look. How is an HSV mouth infection treated?Treatment will depend on your symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how severe the condition is. Treatment may include:
What can I do to prevent an HSV mouth infection?These tips can help you prevent an oral HSV infection:
Key points about an HSV mouth infection
Next stepsTips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:
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