Recurrent herpes simplex labialis
Recurrent herpes simplex labialis, also known as oral herpes, is a condition of the mouth area caused by the herpes simplex virus. It’s a common and contagious condition that spreads easily. According to the World Health Organization (WHO)Trusted Source, an estimated two out of three adults in the world under age 50 carry this virus. The condition causes blisters and sores on the lips, mouth, tongue, or gums. After an initial outbreak, the virus stays dormant inside the nerve cells of the face. Later on in life, the virus can reactivate and result in more sores. These are commonly known as cold sores or fever blisters.Recurrent herpes simplex labialis usually isn’t serious, but relapses are common. Many people choose to treat the recurrent episodes with over-the-counter (OTC) creams.The symptoms will usually go away without treatment in a few weeks. A doctor may prescribe medications if relapses occur often.
What causes recurrent herpes simplex labialis? Herpes simplex labialis is the result of a virus called herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). The initial acquisition usually occurs before age 20. It typically affects the lips and areas around the mouth. You can get the virus from close personal contact, such as through kissing, with someone who has the virus. You can also get oral herpes from touching objects where the virus may be present. These include towels, utensils, razors for shaving, and other shared items. Since the virus lays dormant inside the nerve cells of the face for the rest of a person’s life, symptoms aren’t always present. However, certain events can make the virus reawaken and lead to a recurrent herpes outbreak. Events that trigger a recurrence of oral herpes might include:
• fever
• menstruation
• a high-stress event
• fatigue
• hormonal changes
• upper respiratory infection
• extreme temperature
• a weakened immune system
• recent dental work or surgery
Recognizing the signs of recurrent herpes simplex labialis
The original acquisition may not cause symptoms at all. If it does, blisters may appear near or on the mouth within 1 to 3 weeks after your first contact with the virus. The blisters might last up to 3 weeks. In general, a recurrent episode is milder than the initial outbreak. Symptoms of a recurrent episode may include:
• blisters or sores on the mouth, lips, tongue, nose, or gums
• burning pain around the blisters
• tingling or itching near the lips
• outbreaks of several small blisters that grow together and may be red and inflamed
Tingling or warmth on or near the lips is usually a warning sign that the cold sores of recurrent oral herpes are about to appear in 1 to 2 days. Medication Blisters typically improve on their own, without medical treatment. But if you experience severe or frequent outbreaks, a doctor or clinician can prescribe antiviral medications. Antivirals can help reduce the number of episodes you experience and ease the severity of your symptoms. Options include:
• acyclovir
• famciclovir
• valacyclovir
• foscarnet or cidofovir for HSV infections that resist other medications