Herpes stomatitis (viral mouth infection)
About Herpes stomatitis (viral mouth infection)
A contagious viral illness caused by herpes simplex type 1 virus (HSV). In young children it may be their first exposure to the herpes virus resulting in a systemic illness with high fever, blisters, ulcers in the mouth, and inflammation of the gums. Adults may have recurrences manifest only as a `cold sore`. The sore may resolve even though the HSV virus may remain dormant within the nerve cells. When a patient experiences emotional or physical stress the lesions of HSV can return.Symptoms
Fever, blisters and ulcers in the mouth, poor feeding, drooling, pain with swallowing, swollen gums.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. A culture of a blister or a direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) test can be performed to establish the diagnosis.OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Treatment includes: antiviral treatment (acyclovir/Zovirax), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), and pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol).Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Pediatrics · Family Practice
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Herpes stomatitis (viral mouth infection).