Herpes Inside Mouth

Herpes inside mouth or oral herpes is a viral infection in human beings. Herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) is the virus responsible for this infection. This disease is highly contagious and extremely painful. Herpes sore inside mouth differs from a canker sore, which is not a viral infection. Oral herpes inside mouth is often called a cold sore. Cold sores develop inside the mouth, inside the cheeks, palate etc. The cold sores are in the form of red blisters which have a burning or tingling sensation.

Mode of Transmission of Herpes Inside Mouth
Herpes inside mouth is highly contagious and spreads from person to person by the means of saliva, mucus or skin contact. The chances of herpes infections are accelerated whenever you come in contact with the saliva or mucus of the infected person. Herpes can also be considered as a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) as it is often transmitted into the genital region from the mouth of the infected person.

Symptoms of Herpes Inside Mouth
Although, cold sores is one of the symptoms of herpes inside mouth, it is not the case always. Herpes inside mouth can be entirely asymptotic, meaning it shows no symptoms. Typically, a herpes virus undergoes three phases, before there are any prominent symptoms of infection. The first phase is when the virus actually infects a person. A mild fever may develop during this stage. The next phase is when the virus moves from the infected site and attacks the nerves, called dorsal root ganglion in the spine region. The virus reproduces and remains latent for a long time. The last phase is when the symptoms become apparent. This happens when you are most vulnerable or during physical or emotional stress. Tiredness, pain, muscle fatigue, fever are some of the symptoms apart from cold sores.

Diagnosis of Herpes Inside Mouth
The characteristic appearance of the cold sores leaves little scope for doubt, in diagnosing of herpes inside mouth. Although, further tests are not recommended in most cases, they may become necessary in a few. For definitive diagnosis, blood sample and a culture from cold sores is collected. A test is performed to study the antigens and antibodies. Tzanck smear is a definitive test in the diagnosis of herpes inside mouth.

Treatment for Herpes Inside Mouth
Strengthening your immune system is the first step to treating herpes inside mouth. Also, drink lot of water to prevent dehydration. The prescription drugs for herpes inside mouth include topical anesthetics which numb the pain. Drugs such as acetaminophen (Feverall, Panadol, Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Excedrin, Ibuprin, Advil, Motrin) may be prescribed for fever and muscle ache. The sores and other symptoms may vanish within 2-3 weeks. However, there is always a risk of resurfacing of these symptoms, especially in stressful situations.

Herpes inside mouth is difficult to cure permanently. However, taking proper precautionary measures can definitely minimize the risk of its surfacing again and again. Stress and emotionally exerting circumstances can aggravate the condition of herpes inside mouth.