COLD SORES

By:  Sanjay Shah, M.D.

Cold sores or fever blisters are sores on the lips and at the corners of the mouth.  They are caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus type 1, this virus is different than the genital herpes in adults caused by Herpes Simplex Virus II.  It is extremely common and contagious.  One can catch it by coming into contact with secretions from an infected person’s sores.

The very first episode of Herpes Simplex Virus I (HSV I) illness causes fever and blisters all over the mouth which linger for 3-5 days and go away without any treatment.  This especially happens in a young child. However, most of us are infected by HSV I by adulthood and may not remember the initial onset of the illness.  The initial infection may also be silent.  The virus stays dormant n our body without causing any trouble.  Some people may experience outbreaks of painful blisters on lips every time they have a fever, physical or emotional stress or sun exposure.  The blisters tend to come on the same spots on the mouth.  Recurrent cold sores or fever blisters are not a sign of more severe underlying problems.  They resolve on their own without treatment. You can make your child’s pain better by applying cold compresses and petroleum jelly to the affected area.  Your child’s pediatrician may prescribe an antiviral cream to put on sores to make them go away faster.  Cold sores or fever blisters cannot be cured by any medicines.  When you or your child have cold sores it is very important to not share utensils, towels and napkins.  Good hand washing will minimize the spread of the virus to other family members.  One should be especially careful around newborns as they may get a serious brain infection resulting from HSV I.

Finally, it is important that if your child has severe mouth sores, high fever or a prolonged illness that you seek medical assistance to rule out other problems that may also be common with mouth sores.  If you have any additional questions or concerns about this or any other health issue please contact Leitchfield Pediatric Clinic at 270-259-5641.