Causes
Generally, herpes simplex viruses (HSV) cause herpes stomatitis, primarily type 1 (HSV-1). It is highly contagious and is transmitted through direct contact with saliva or lesions of infected individuals. Sharing utensils, towels, or other personal items with infected people can also spread it.
Symptoms
Herpetic stomatitis may cause the following symptoms:
-
Sores on the lips, gums, tongue, palate, or inside the cheeks that are small and painful.
-
Redness and swelling of the affected area.
-
Pain or discomfort when eating or drinking, especially if lesions are present on the tongue or gums.
-
Symptoms may be accompanied by mild to moderate fever, especially in children.
-
Insomnia, fatigue, or irritability are all symptoms of malaise.
-
Lymph Nodes Enlarged: Swollen and tender lymph nodes under the jaw or in the neck.
Diagnosis
Herpetic stomatitis is typically diagnosed by:
-
During a clinical examination, a healthcare provider will look for characteristic signs of herpetic lesions in the oral cavity.
-
Asking about recent symptoms, exposure to HSV-infected individuals, or previous episodes of oral herpes.
-
If necessary, a sample of fluid from the lesions can be collected and tested using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or viral culture to confirm the presence of HSV.
Treatment
Herpetic stomatitis is usually treated with:
-
Inhibiting viral replication with antiviral medications such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir will reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.
-
A pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help alleviate discomfort and fever associated with herpetic stomatitis.
-
To reduce pain and promote healing, topical antiviral creams or ointments containing acyclovir or docosanol may be applied directly to the lesions.
-
Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing gently and rinsing with saltwater or antiseptic mouthwash, can prevent secondary bacterial infections.
Prevention
Herpetic stomatitis can be prevented by:
-
Kissing or sharing utensils, towels, or personal items with individuals with active oral herpes lesions should be avoided.
-
To reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others or other parts of the body, wash your hands frequently, especially after touching your face or mouth.
-
To reduce the risk of transmitting HSV to the genitals or acquiring genital herpes, use condoms or dental dams during oral sex.
-
By practicing stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or yoga, you can prevent recurrences of oral herpes caused by fatigue and stress.
Conclusion
This viral infection is characterized by painful oral ulcers or blisters caused by the herpes simplex virus. While there is no cure for HSV, antiviral medications can help manage symptoms and reduce outbreaks. The spread of the virus can be minimized by practicing good hygiene and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
