Herpes oralis is a common infection of the mouth, lips, and gums caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), the same virus that causes genital herpes. The blisters and sores that result from oral herpes can last for a few days or weeks. Infections can be transmitted directly through kissing, sharing utensils, or oral sex, which can result in oral herpes. Antiviral medications can be used to treat oral herpes, reducing its severity and duration. By avoiding contact with infected areas, practicing good oral hygiene, and boosting the immune system, oral herpes can be prevented.
Causes
Infection of the skin and mucous membranes with oral herpes is caused by the highly contagious herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Small breaks in the skin or mucous membranes, such as cuts, abrasions, or burns, are the main ways that HSV-1 enters the body. By kissing, sharing utensils, or oral sex, HSV-1 can also be transmitted directly from the mouth to the genitals, causing genital herpes.
Herpes orale can be caused by a number of factors, including:
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A weakened immune system caused by HIV, cancer, diabetes, or medications such as steroids or chemotherapy
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Cold sores or fever blisters in the past
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Being infected with oral herpes or having a family member or partner who is infected
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Stress, fatigue, illness, or injury
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A hormonal imbalance, such as during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause
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The extraction of a tooth or the root canal of a tooth
Symptoms
Symptoms of oral herpes can vary depending on the stage of the infection.
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The prodrome is the first stage of the condition before blisters appear. It can last for several hours or days and cause tingling, itching, burning, or numbness.
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During the outbreak stage, blisters appear on the lips, mouth, gums, or throat. Blisters are small, fluid-filled, and painful. When the blisters break open, they release a clear liquid that can be infectious. It takes up to two weeks for the blisters to crust over and heal.
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The third stage is latency, when the virus is dormant and inactive, but can reactivate at any time, causing symptoms to return.
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A recurrence occurs when the virus reactivates and causes another outbreak. It can be triggered by various factors, such as stress, fatigue, illness, injury, or hormonal changes. It can occur at different intervals, ranging from once a month to once a year, and can be less severe and shorter than the initial outbreak.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of oral herpes depends on a physical examination and a laboratory test. Physical examination includes inspecting the mouth, lips, and gums for blisters, sores, and ulcers. A sample of the blister fluid, or a swab of the affected area, can be tested for the presence of HSV-1 in a laboratory test. Lab tests can confirm the diagnosis of oral herpes, as well as rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as canker sores, impetigo, or syphilis.
Treatment
Antiviral medications can be used to treat oral herpes, reducing the severity and duration of symptoms and preventing the spread of the infection. Several antiviral medications are available, either orally, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir, or topically, such as penciclovir or acyclovir cream. When symptoms first appear, antiviral medications can be taken, or as a preventive measure, if recurrences are frequent or severe.
Self-care measures and home remedies can also be used to treat oral herpes, which can relieve the pain and discomfort, and speed up the healing process.
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Inflammation and swelling can be reduced by applying ice or a cold compress to the affected area
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By applying a warm compress or a moist tea bag to the affected area, you can soothe the pain and promote blood circulation
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Antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera gel, honey, or lemon balm can be applied to the affected area
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By rinsing the mouth with salt water, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide, you can eliminate the infection and prevent bacteria from growing
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The pain and fever can be reduced by taking over-the-counter painkillers, such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or aspirin
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Itching and allergic reactions can be reduced by taking over-the-counter antihistamines such as diphenhydramine, loratadine, or cetirizine
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Supplements such as vitamin C, zinc, or lysine can boost the immune system and prevent infection recurrence
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Foods that are spicy, acidic, or salty can irritate the sores and delay healing
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Keeping your mouth hydrated by avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine
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Touching, picking, or scratching blisters can spread infection and cause scarring
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Kissing, sharing utensils, and oral sex can spread the infection
Prevention
Several preventive measures can be taken to prevent oral herpes, including avoiding or reducing exposure to the virus, as well as strengthening the immune system.
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Keeping your distance from people who have oral herpes, especially if they have active blisters or sores
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People with oral herpes should avoid sharing personal items, such as lip balm, toothbrushes, razors, and towels
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Using a dental dam or a condom with people with genital herpes or avoiding oral sex with them
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Testing for HSV-1 and HSV-2 and informing the partner
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Oral cancer can be prevented by getting vaccinated against HPV
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Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and rinsing the mouth regularly
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Consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in a balanced diet
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Avoiding sugary or acidic drinks and drinking plenty of water
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Regular exercise and stress management
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Sleeping enough and avoiding fatigue
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Supplements such as vitamin C, zinc, or lysine can boost the immune system and prevent recurrences
