Oral Herpes

Oral Herpes Overview

Oral herpes is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. The virus causes painful sores on your lips, gums, tongue, roof of your mouth, and inside your cheeks. It also can cause symptoms such as fever and muscle aches.

• The herpes simplex virus affects only humans. Mouth sores most commonly occur in children aged 1-2 years, but they can affect people at any age and any time of the year.
• People contract herpes by touching infected saliva, mucous membranes, or skin. Because the virus is highly contagious, most people have been infected by at least 1 herpes subtype before adulthood.
• After the herpes virus infects you, it has a rather unique ability to proceed to 3 stages.
  • Primary infection: The virus enters your skin or mucous membrane and reproduces. During this stage, oral sores and other symptoms, such as fever, may develop.
    • The virus may not cause any sores and symptoms. You may not know that you have it. This is called asymptomatic infection.
    • Asymptomatic infection occurs twice as often as the disease with symptoms.

• • Latency: From the infected site, the virus moves to a mass of nervous tissue in your spine called the dorsal root ganglion. There the virus reproduces again and becomes inactive.
  • Recurrence: When you encounter certain stresses, emotional or physical, the virus may reactivate and cause new sores and symptoms.

Oral Herpes Causes

Herpes simplex is a DNA virus that causes sores in and around your mouth. Two herpes subtypes may cause these sores.

• Herpes simplex virus, type 1 or herpes-1, which causes 80% of cases of oral herpes infections
• Herpes simplex virus, type 2 or herpes-2, which causes the rest

Oral Herpes Symptoms

Incubation period: For oral herpes, the amount of time between contact with the virus and the appearance of symptoms, the incubation period, is 2-12 days. Most people average about 4 days.

• Duration of illness: Signs and symptoms will last 2-3 weeks. Fever, tiredness, muscle aches, and irritability may occur.
  • Pain, burning, tingling, or itching occurs at the infection site before the sores appear. Then clusters of blisters erupt. These blisters break down rapidly and, when seen, appear as tiny, shallow, gray ulcers on a red base. A few days later, they become crusted or scabbed and appear drier and more yellow
  • Oral sores: The most intense pain caused by these sores occurs at the onset and make eating and drinking difficult.
    • The sores may occur on the lips, the gums, the front of the tongue, the inside of the cheeks, the throat, and the roof of the mouth.
    • They may also extend down the chin and neck.
    • The gums may become mildly swollen and red and may bleed.
    • Neck lymph nodes often swell and become painful.
    • In people in their teens and 20s, herpes may cause a painful throat with shallow ulcers and a grayish coating on the tonsils.

When to Seek Medical Care

When to call the doctor

• Because the sores are painful, you may have difficulty eating or drinking. To prevent dehydration, call your doctor as soon as you cannot eat or drink.
• Call your doctor immediately if any of these symptoms, which suggest dehydration, occur:
  • A decrease in urination (fewer wet diapers in infants)
  • Drowsiness
  • Irritability
  • Dry mouth
• Call your doctor if you or your children are not sure what the sores are.
• If your child is younger than 8 weeks, notify your doctor when sores appear. Severe infection or disease complications occur more commonly in infants. For instance, besides affecting the mouth, the herpes simplex virus may go to the brain and produce damage.
• People whose immune systems are weakened should also call their doctor when sores appear. Your immune system protects you from infection or fights infection. If your system is weakened, you are more likely to have severe infection or disease complication.

When to go to the hospital

Signs and symptoms of dehydration may warrant going to a hospital’s emergency department.

Exams and Tests

A doctor will base a diagnosis on information you provide and on physical examination. The characteristic appearance of the herpes sores leaves little doubt. Further testing is usually not necessary.

If you require a definitive diagnosis, for instance, if your infection involves other organ systems, the doctor may conduct laboratory tests.

• A sample from the sores to identify the virus
• A culture analysis
• A staining test called the Tzanck smear
• Antigen and antibody studies
• Blood sampling for antibody studies

Oral Herpes Treatment Self-Care at Home

Medical Treatment

Treatment includes medication for fever and taking plenty of fluids.

• A topical anesthetic such as viscous lidocaine (Dilocaine, Nervocaine, Xylocaine, Zilactin-L) may be prescribed to relieve pain.
• Oral or IV medication does exist for herpes but is not recommended for people with a normal immune system. It is used only for people with weakened immune systems, infants younger than 6 weeks, or people with severe disease.
• Some people may require hospital admission:
  • Those with severe local infection
  • People whose infection has spread to other organ systems
  • People with weakened immune systems
  • Dehydrated individuals who need IV hydration
  • Infants younger than 6 weeks

Next Steps Follow-up

• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Use pain medications as instructed by the doctor.
• Use medications to control fever.
• Watch for signs and symptoms of dehydration.

Prevention

Avoid touching saliva, skin, or mucous membranes that have sores.

Outlook

The sores and symptoms of oral herpes completely clear up in 2-3 weeks. But the sores may reappear under certain stressful situations.

Multimedia

Media file 1: Oral Herpes. Clusters of blisters erupt on the lips, tongue, and inside the mouth. Most people have been infected by at least 1 herpes subtype before adulthood.

Synonyms and Keywords

herpes labialis, herpes gingivostomatitis, herpes pharyngitis, cold sores, fever blisters, herpes simplex virus, herpes simplex virus type 1, herpes-1, herpes simplex virus, type 2 or herpes-2, herpes blister, oral blister, oral herpes

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Mouth Infection

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What is a herpes simplex virus (HSV) mouth infection? 

Some people call it a cold sore, others a fever blister. Herpes
simplex virus is the cause of this annoying and often painful chronic condition.

The herpes sores (lesions) typically last a week to 10 days. They
most often occur on the lips, tongue, roof of the mouth, or the gums. The sores
occur first as fluid-filled blisters that burst (rupture) after a day or 2. The
sores will ooze fluid that has the virus. After a few days, the sores will form
crusts or scabs. The virus is highly contagious and can be spread by skin-to-skin
contact such as kissing.

What causes an HSV mouth infection?

The virus is spread by skin-to-skin contact with someone who
carries the virus. Most people with oral herpes were infected during childhood or
as
young adults from nonsexual contact with infected saliva. It can be passed by
kissing, touching the infected person’s skin, or sharing infected objects such as
lip balm, silverware, or razors.

The 2 most common forms of the virus are:

• Herpes simplex virus type 1
  (HSV-1).
  HSV-1 is most often linked to infections of the mouth.
• Herpes simplex virus type 2
  (HSV-2).
  This type is most often linked to genital herpes infections.

Both types of HSV can infect both the mouth and the genitals.

Once infected, a person will have the herpes simplex virus for the
rest of their life. When the virus is not active, it is dormant in a group of nerve
cells. Some people never have any symptoms from the virus while others have periodic
outbreaks of infections.

It is not clear what triggers the virus to return. But the risk
factors below may play a role:

• Long or intense exposure to sunlight
• A recent fever
• Emotional stress
• Menstruation
• Surgery
• Physical injury

Recurrent outbreaks are more common in the first year after the
initial episode. After that, the outbreaks diminish in frequency and severity as the
body builds antibodies to the virus.

What are the symptoms of an HSV mouth infection?

The initial (primary) infection of the oral herpes simplex virus
is often the worst. It may cause severe, flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, and
headache. But some people have no symptoms at all. In the initial infection, sores
can occur on and around the lips and all over the mouth.

Recurring infections tend to be much milder, and the sores often
erupt in the edges of the lips. Some people never have any more outbreaks beyond the
initial infection. These are the most common symptoms of a recurring oral HSV
infection:

• Initial redness, swelling, heat, and pain, or itching in the
  area where the infection will erupt.
• Painful, fluid-filled blisters may appear on the lips or
  under the nose. These blisters, and the fluid they contain, are highly
  contagious.
• The blisters leak fluids and become sores.
• After about 4 to 6 days, the sores start to crust over and
  heal.

The symptoms of an oral HSV outbreak may look like other
conditions or health problems. Always see your healthcare provider for a
diagnosis.

How is an HSV mouth infection diagnosed?

Herpes simplex virus may be difficult to diagnose because it may
be confused with many other infections, such as allergic reactions. HSV can be
confirmed only with a virus culture, blood test, or biopsy. A healthcare provider
can often diagnose it based on where the blisters are and how they look. 

How is an HSV mouth infection treated?

Treatment will depend on your symptoms, age, and general health.
It will also depend on how severe the condition is.

Treatment may include:

• Keeping the infected area clean and dry
• Antibiotic treatment for any secondary bacterial
  infections
• Topical antiviral creams
• Oral antiviral medicines

What can I do to prevent an HSV mouth infection?

These tips can help you prevent an oral HSV infection:

• Don’t have direct contact with someone with herpes sores.
  According to the CDC, genital herpes (HSV-2) can be contagious without any
  symptoms.
• Don’t share silverware, glasses, straws, or other items with
  someone who has oral herpes.
• Wash bedding and towels in boiling hot water after each
  use.
• Don’t have oral sex if you or your partner have oral herpes
  (HSV-1). HSV-1 can be spread to the genitals, especially if you have oral
  blisters.
• To prevent a possible recurrence, use a sunblock that
  contains zinc oxide on your lips.

Key points about an HSV mouth infection

• A cold sore or fever blister is caused by the herpes simplex
  virus.
• The virus is highly contagious and can be spread by
  skin-to-skin contact such as kissing.
• Once infected, a person will have the herpes simplex virus
  for the rest of their life.
• Herpes sores typically last a week to 10 days. They most
  often occur on the lips, tongue, roof of the mouth, or the gums.

Next steps

Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare
provider:

• Know the reason for your visit and what you want to
  happen.
• Before your visit, write down questions you want
  answered.
• Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and
  remember what your provider tells you.
• At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis and any
  new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your
  provider gives you.
• Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed and how
  it will help you. Also know what the side effects are.
• Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways.
• Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the
  results could mean.
• Know what to expect if you do not take the medicine or have
  the test or procedure.
• If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date,
  time, and purpose for that visit.
• Know how you can contact your provider if you have
  questions.

Medical Reviewer: Michael Kapner MD

Medical Reviewer: Rita Sather RN

Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN

© 2000-2021 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional’s instructions.

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Cold Sores (Orofacial Herpes) in Adults: Condition, Treatments, and Pictures – Overview

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Images of Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), Orofacial

Overview

Herpes simplex infection of the mouth and face, known as orofacial herpes simplex, herpes labialis, cold sores, or fever blisters, is a common, recurrent skin condition associated with infection by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Orofacial HSV usually appears as small blisters or sores around the mouth, nose, genitals, and buttocks, though infections can develop almost anywhere on the skin. Furthermore, these cold sores may periodically come back in the same sites.

Infections with HSV are very contagious and are spread by direct contact with the skin lesions. There are 2 types of HSV: herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 infections usually occur around the mouth, lips, nose, or face, while HSV-2 infections usually involve the genitals or buttocks. However, HSV-1 can sometimes cause infections in the genitals or buttocks, while HSV-2 can occasionally cause infections around the mouth, lips, nose, or face.

Both types of virus produce 2 kinds of infections: primary and recurrent. Because it so contagious, HSV causes a primary infection in most people who are exposed to the virus. However, only about 20% of people who are infected with HSV actually develop visible blisters or sores. Appearing 2–12 days after a person’s first exposure to HSV, the sores of a primary infection last about 1–3 weeks. These sores heal completely, rarely leaving a scar. Nevertheless, the virus remains in the body, hibernating in nerve cells.

Certain triggers can cause the hibernating (latent) virus to wake up, become active, and travel back to the skin. These recurrent HSV infections may develop frequently (every few weeks), or they may never develop. Recurrent infections tend to be milder than primary infections and generally occur in the same location as the primary infection.

Most people get cold sores as children, through contact with a friend or family member who is already infected with HSV. It can be spread (transmitted) by kissing, sharing eating utensils or drinking vessels, or by using the same towel.

Who’s at risk?

HSV infections occur in people of all races, of all ages, and of both sexes.

Increasing age is associated with increased likelihood of infection. Up to 80% of Americans are infected with HSV-1 by the time they are 30 years old.

Only 20% of people who are infected with HSV actually develop visible blisters or sores. That means that approximately 80% of people with HSV infections have not been diagnosed and are unaware of their condition. Nevertheless, they can still transmit the infection to others.

Signs and Symptoms

The most common locations for HSV-1 infections include:

• Lips
• Mouth (including gums, tongue, roof of mouth, and inside the cheeks)
• Nose
• Chin
• Cheeks

Shortly after exposure to the virus, a newly infected person may develop fluid-filled blisters, occurring singly or in a cluster of several blisters. These blisters may be yellow to gray and are fragile, so that many people never notice blisters but instead see tiny open sores (ulcers). These ulcers subsequently become scabbed over and may appear dry and yellow. The scabs eventually fall off, leaving a red area that fades. The first (primary) outbreak of HSV typically lasts 1–3 weeks.

In mild cases of primary orofacial HSV infection, an individual may develop 1–2 cold sores or may notice no symptoms at all. The lymph nodes in the neck may or may not be swollen. In severe cases of HSV infection, cold sores may involve the entire lining of the mouth and both lips. These severe infections may be accompanied by fever, sore throat, foul breath, and difficulty eating.

Repeat (recurrent) HSV infections are often milder than the primary infection, though they look alike. However, some people never develop the symptoms of a primary HSV infection and may mistake a recurrent infection for a primary infection. A recurrent infection typically lasts 7–10 days. People who are prone to recurrent outbreaks tend to get them 3–4 times per year.

Many people with recurrent HSV infections report that the skin lesions are preceded by sensations of burning, itching, or tingling (prodrome). About 24 hours after the prodrome symptoms begin, the actual lesions appear as one or more small blisters or open sores, which eventually become scabbed over.

Triggers of recurrent HSV infections include:

• Fever or illness
• Sun exposure
• Hormonal changes, such as those due to menstruation or pregnancy
• Stress
• Trauma, such as that caused by dental work or cuts from shaving
• Surgery

Self-Care Guidelines

Acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help reduce fever, muscle aches, and pain caused by cold sores. Try to drink as many fluids as possible to prevent dehydration. Applying ice packs may relieve some of the swelling and discomfort.

Because HSV is very contagious, it is important to take the following steps to prevent spread (transmission) of the virus during the prodromal phase (burning, tingling, or itching) and active phase (presence of blisters or sores) of HSV infections:

• Avoid sharing cups or eating utensils.
• Avoid kissing or performing oral sex.
• Avoid sharing lip balm or lipstick.
• Avoid sharing razors, towels, and other personal care items.
• Wash your hands with soap and water if you touch an active lesion.

Unfortunately, the virus can still be transmitted even when someone does not have active lesions.

When to Seek Medical Care

If you develop tender, painful sores in the mouth or on the lips or nose, see a physician.

Contact your doctor immediately if an HSV outbreak has not gone away in 2 weeks, if you are not eating or drinking because of the pain, or if you develop blisters or sores near your eye.

If you have an underlying medical condition such as cancer or HIV, or if you have undergone organ transplantation, you are at higher risk for more serious complications. Seek medical advice as soon as possible, especially if you are at risk for more serious complications.

Treatments Your Physician May Prescribe

Most HSV infections are easy for physicians to diagnose. On occasion, however, a swab from the infected skin may be sent to the laboratory for viral culture, which takes a few days to grow. Blood tests may also be performed.

Untreated HSV infections will go away on their own, but medications can reduce the symptoms and shorten the duration of outbreaks. There is no cure for HSV infection.

Treatment for primary HSV infection includes the following oral antiviral medications:

• Acyclovir pills
• Valacyclovir pills
• Famciclovir pills

These medications are usually taken for 5–14 days.

More severe primary HSV infections may require additional medications:

• Oral antibiotic pills if the areas are also infected with bacteria
• Topical anesthetic, such as viscous lidocaine, if the areas inside the mouth are very painful

In addition, very severe infections may require intravenous fluids (and even intravenous antiviral medications) or painkillers if the pain prevents you from drinking fluids.

Treatment for recurrent HSV infection includes the same oral antiviral medications used to treat primary infection:

• Acyclovir pills
• Valacyclovir pills
• Famciclovir pills

People who experience early signs (prodromes) before recurrent infections may benefit from episodic treatment, by starting to take medication after the onset of tingling and burning but before the appearance of blisters and sores.

Other people have recurrent infections that are frequent enough or severe enough to justify suppressive therapy, in which medications are taken every day in order to decrease the frequency and severity of attacks.

Trusted Links

MedlinePlus: Mouth DisordersClinical Information and Differential Diagnosis of Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), Orofacial

References

Bolognia, Jean L., ed. Dermatology, pp.1235-1241. New York: Mosby, 2003.

Freedberg, Irwin M., ed. Fitzpatrick’s Dermatology in General Medicine. 6^th ed, pp.1252. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2003.

Sore On The Roof Of Your Mouth? 4 Possible Causes

What are some other associated conditions that may cause mouth sores?

Some systemic health conditions may cause a higher instance of canker sores. Your doctor or dentist can let you know about possible connections between canker sores and your other health conditions.

The group of digestive problems known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is associated with aphthous ulcers. Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which cause inflammation in the digestive tract, can also result in mouth sores. The gastrointestinal effects of celiac disease make it another one of the many conditions associated with canker sores. People with celiac disease have a sensitivity to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and other grains. Their inability to absorb this protein may be what causes oral problems.

Diseases that attack the immune system often cause aphthous ulcers, as well. People living with HIV often develop canker sores and other oral health problems as a result of being immunocompromised. The difficulty of eating and talking that ulcers can cause can make it difficult to take medication and stay well-nourished.

Lupus and Behcet’s disease are also conditions linked to canker sores. This rare autoimmune disease causes inflammation throughout the body, and the mouth can be affected, too.

How Can I Treat a Sore Spot?

Most mouth sores will heal on their own over time. However, while your mouth is healing, there are a few things you can do to ease the pain and prevent further irritation. According to the American Dental Association, saltwater or baking soda rinses can relieve your discomfort. There are also over-the-counter topical anesthetics to provide relief. In some cases, your dentist may prescribe an antiviral drug.

What are Other Ways to Help Healing?

There are a few canker and cold sore home remedy tips may help ease the discomfort during the healing process.

While your canker  or cold sores are healing, try to avoid any foods or drinks that could further irritate them. Some of the foods, drinks and other things to consider avoiding are:

• Crunchy foods, like chips or toast
• Acidic fruits, like citrus or tomatoes
• Salty crackers or pretzels
• Spicy foods or hot peppers
• Very hot drinks, like tea or coffee
• Alcohol
• Tobacco products

While many foods can irritate mouth sores, don’t worry — there’s still plenty you can eat! Instead of irritating foods, opt for soft, bland foods. Yogurt, mashed potatoes and pudding are just a few examples. Your dentist or doctor may be able to recommend other suitable foods to eat during this time.

Dietary changes aren’t the only way to ease the discomfort associated with these ulcers. Ice is another easy home remedy to try when you have painful mouth sores. The Mayo Clinic recommends letting ice chips slowly melt against the lesions to help relieve pain and swelling.

If you suffer from recurrent canker sores, try to identify your triggers for mouth sores, such as acidic foods or stress, so you can better prevent them.

If you have sores inside your mouth, don’t assume the worst. Just take it easy and avoid irritating them. Most sores go away on their own, but if any oral related sores do not heal within two weeks, go ahead and see your dentist or physician.  Sometimes mouth sores are asymptomatic, so regular checkups, including a head and neck exam, is an essential preventive measure to keep you healthy.

Sore On The Roof Of Your Mouth? Four Possible Causes

Mouth ulcers are not uncommon but developing a sore on the roof of your mouth can still have you concerned. Nevertheless, the location of this oral sore has many possible sources, so you shouldn’t immediately assume the worst. In fact, if you have a sore on the roof of your mouth tissue, you may have one of these four conditions:

1. Burns

Bumps on the roof of your mouth are sometimes just a burn, particularly after a hot meal. This phenomenon is known as “pizza palate” because fresh slices of pizza are usually the cause of irritation in this part of the mouth. However, pizza isn’t the only food that can burn your mouth; any hot food can have this effect. Hot drinks, like coffee or tea, can lead to similar burns.

A burned palate usually heals by itself within three to seven days. To ease your discomfort in the meantime, stick to soft foods and cool drinks. If the pain is severe, your dentist may recommend using a product to ease the sensation in your sores and promote quicker healing. If the area is still sore after seven days, don’t hesitate to see your dentist.

2. Canker Sores

Canker sores can always develop on the inside of your cheeks, but don’t be surprised to feel them on the roof of your mouth as well. Canker sores are round, sensitive masses whose origins depend on the case. Researchers think these sores may be caused by problems with the immune system, and are therefore triggered through factors like stress, certain foods and hormonal changes.

Generally, people will get one to three canker sores per instance, but some may develop upwards of 10 or more sores at one time. These sores usually hurt for a little over a week, then disappear completely after two weeks. While you wait for your mouth to heal, you may benefit from eating bland foods to avoid irritating your sores. Of course, your dentist could also prescribe a pain-relieving gel for you to apply to your sores during the recovery process. If your sores haven’t healed after these two weeks, they should be checked out by your dentist.

3. Cold Sores

Sores on the roof of your mouth – particularly those that don’t dissipate right away – may ultimately be cold sores. A common growth caused by the herpes simplex virus, cold sores are usually found on the lips, but they can also be found on the hard palate. These sores present themselves as painful, fluid-filled blisters; the blisters later rupture and crust over as less-painful lesions.

Cold sores usually become crustier within four days of appearing and will heal completely after eight to 10 days. While they’re healing, avoid touching or picking at them, just as you would for a scab. If the sores don’t go away by themselves, as you know, your dentist is happy to help.

4. Oral Cancer

Although some of the sores that form on the roof of your mouth are harmless, not all of them are best left alone. Sores on the roof of your mouth can sometimes be a symptom of oral cancer. And if you have a sore on the roof of your mouth that hasn’t healed after two weeks, you need to see your dentist as soon as you can for an evaluation. Oral cancer is most treatable when it’s caught early, so it’s important to bring suspicious sores to your dentist’s attention right away.

If your dentist suspects a sore is cancerous, he or she will send you to an oral surgeon for an oral evaluation and perform a biopsy of the tissue. If cancer is found, treatment can start just as quickly. This treatment often involves surgically removing the cancerous sore, and afterward, radiation or chemotherapy to be sure it doesn’t affect other cells.

If you develop a sore in roof of mouth tissue, there’s no need to assume the cause is out of your control. These sores can have many drivers, ranging from harmless to the more invasive. Many of them go away on their own, but a sore on the roof of your mouth that doesn’t heal within two weeks is the perfect reason to see your dentist for an evaluation – and a regular check-up.

Mouth sores: Causes, treatment, and pictures

There are many potential causes of mouth sores. When these sores appear, they are often painful and can make everyday activities, such as brushing the teeth or eating hot food, more difficult.

In most cases, mild irritation causes a sore to appear. Avoiding the irritant can help a person prevent mouth sores in the future.

In other cases, sores form due to underlying health conditions. As some mouth sores can be contagious and may require treatment, anyone who is concerned about chronic or long-lasting sores should speak to a doctor.

In this article, learn about the possible causes of mouth sores as well as the treatment options.

Most mouth sores occur as a result of irritation. Many things can irritate the mouth and lead to sores, including:

• poorly fitting dentures
• a sharp or broken tooth
• braces or other devices, such as retainers
• burning the mouth on hot food or beverages
• tobacco products

In other cases, mouth sores may develop due to:

Medical conditions and diseases that cause mouth sores include:

• Candidiasis, or oral thrush, which is a fungal infection that causes white and red patches to appear in the mouth.
• Herpes simplex, which causes cold sores on the mouth and can also produce genital sores.
• Lichen planus, a chronic condition that causes an itchy, inflammatory rash in the mouth or on the skin.
• Chronic canker sores, which have a red, flat edge and white or greyish patches surrounding them.
• Gingivostomatitis, a common infection that is particularly prevalent in children. The sores are similar to canker sores, but they occur alongside symptoms of a cold or the flu.
• Hand, foot, and mouth disease, which causes small, painful red patches to appear on these parts of the body. It is most common in children.
• Leukoplakia, which causes white-grey patches to appear nearly anywhere in the mouth.
• Autoimmune diseases, which may cause mouth sores to form.
• Erythroplakia, a red patch that appears on the floor of the mouth and can be cancerous or precancerous.
• Oral cancer, which can cause sores and lesions in the mouth.

In most cases, a person can determine the cause of their mouth sore themselves. For example, a person who has had a canker sore before will recognize another one if it appears.

A person who bites their cheek will know that the sore came from this incident. People with diagnosed conditions, such as herpes of the mouth, may recognize their symptoms and have a plan of action to address the flare.

If a person has recurrent or unexplained mouth sores, a doctor may be able to identify the cause of the sores by carrying out a visual check. They may also perform some tests, such as swabs and blood tests.

If a doctor suspects that a sore is the result of serious illness, they are likely to perform a biopsy of the area to test for the presence of cancer or other health issues.

In many cases, mouth sores will heal without treatment. Sores from minor injuries will typically clear within 1–2 weeks.

While their sores are healing, people can try:

• gargling with salt water
• excluding hot or spicy foods from their diet
• abstaining from using tobacco products
• avoiding alcohol
• avoiding eating citrus fruits or salty foods, as they may cause sores to sting
• using mouthwash
• taking oral pain relievers
• applying baking soda and water to the sore

If home remedies are not enough or the sore does not heal on its own, a person may wish to talk with their doctor about further treatment options.

A doctor can prescribe stronger anti-inflammatory or pain-relieving medications and ointments. If an underlying condition is causing the mouth sores, a doctor will develop a treatment plan for this too.

Share on PinterestPeople can avoid getting mouth sores by chewing carefully, practicing good dental hygiene, and avoiding smoking.

Some steps that a person can take to help prevent mouth sores include:

• avoiding hot foods and beverages
• chewing carefully and slowly
• practicing good dental hygiene
• decreasing stress
• avoiding smoking and other tobacco use
• limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption
• drinking plenty of water
• speaking to a dentist if a dental device is causing irritation
• using barrier protection during sex
• using lip balms with SPF to avoid sun damage

A person should speak to a healthcare professional if they experience:

• sores that get worse or do not get better over time
• signs of an infection
• white patches on the sores
• sores that develop after starting medication or cancer treatment

Mouth sores can be bothersome and painful. There are many causes of mouth sores, the most common of which is irritation.

In many cases, mouth sores will heal on their own with little need for treatment. In other cases, a person may need to take medication to treat the underlying cause of the sores.

If a person has frequent or long-lasting mouth sores or the pain is severe, it is best to speak to a doctor.

Pictures, causes, treatment, and prevention

Mouth sores, also known as ulcers, are a common symptom of HIV. Mouth sores can have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life if they do not get treatment.

People living with HIV are more likely to develop oral health problems because the virus can weaken the immune system, which makes it harder to fight infection.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 40–50 percent of people living with HIV have oral infections that can cause complications in the mouth, including sores.

Mouth sores can be painful and make eating, swallowing, and taking medications more challenging.

In this article, we look at the causes and treatment of mouth sores in people living with HIV. We also cover some general prevention tips and when to see a doctor.

Oral herpes can cause painful red sores on the lips, gums, tongue, and inside of the cheeks. These lesions are commonly known as cold sores or fever blisters, and they result from infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV).

Additional symptoms may include:

• fever
• fatigue
• muscle aches
• swollen or painful lymph nodes
• a burning or tingling sensation near the sores

Anyone can get oral herpes, but HIV increases the risk for opportunistic infections, such as HSV. People with untreated HIV may experience more prolonged and severe outbreaks of cold sores.

HSV is a common and highly contagious infection. It is possible to contract oral herpes through direct contact with the saliva or cold sores of someone with the infection. Transmission is more likely to occur during an outbreak of sores.

People can reduce their risk of contracting HSV by not kissing or sharing foods with someone with oral herpes, especially during an outbreak.

HSV can also cause genital herpes, which a person can transmit during vaginal, anal, or oral sex.

Herpes is treatable. Doctors may prescribe oral antiviral medications, such as acyclovir or valacyclovir.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections are prevalent among people living with HIV. An Italian study found that 48 percent of women living with HIV had an HPV infection compared with 28 percent of women without HIV.

HPV can cause small white bumps, or warts, on and around the mouth and lips. These warts are usually not painful, but they may bleed if a person picks at them.

HPV can also cause genital warts, which are highly contagious. A person can contract oral HPV during oral sex if the virus enters the bloodstream through a cut or tear in the mouth.

Most people who have oral HPV do not experience any symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they can include:

• warts
• painful sores inside the mouth
• difficulty swallowing
• swollen tonsils
• a sore throat

Ways to reduce the risk of oral HPV include:

• getting the HPV vaccine
• using a condom during sex
• limiting the number of sexual partners
• quitting smoking and other tobacco products

There is no known cure for HPV. It is difficult to treat HPV warts with topical medications, so doctors may need to remove them surgically.

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are painful ulcers that can develop on the soft tissue inside the mouth. They are typically small and either white or gray.

Doctors do not fully understand what causes canker sores, but various factors, such as mouth injuries, stress, vitamin deficiencies, and weakened immune function, may play a role in their development. Canker sores are not contagious.

People can help reduce their risk of canker sores by doing the following:

• avoiding and managing stress
• avoiding spicy or acidic foods and beverages
• chewing carefully to avoid injuring the mouth
• eating a balanced and healthful diet

For mild canker sores, rinsing the mouth with an over-the-counter mouthwash can reduce inflammation and keep the ulcers clean. In severe cases, a doctor or dentist may prescribe medicated ointments and mouthwash to minimize pain and promote healing.

People with a compromised immune system may be at greater risk of developing oral thrush.

Oral thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is a fungal infection of the mouth. The infection presents as white or yellow patches on the tongue, the roof of the mouth, or the inside of the cheeks.

Anyone can get oral thrush, but infants, older people, and individuals with a weakened immune system have a higher risk.

Other symptoms can include:

• a burning sensation that may cause difficulty swallowing
• loss of taste
• dry mouth

People can treat oral thrush with antifungal mouthwash and medications.

HIV can cause the salivary glands to swell, which can lead to reduced saliva production and dry mouth. Saliva protects the teeth and gums from plaque and helps fight off infection. Dry mouth can also be a side effect of HIV medications.

Symptoms of dry mouth include:

• trouble chewing and swallowing dry foods
• difficulty speaking
• a painful tongue
• inflammation of the tongue
• ulcers on the tongue
• bad breath

People can treat dry mouth by keeping their mouth clean and staying hydrated. If dry mouth persists, a person may want to consider seeking advice from a healthcare professional. Dry mouth can lead to other complications, such as gum disease.

Gum disease is an infection that results in swollen, painful gums. In severe cases, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. It can also be a sign of inflammation in other parts of the body.

Symptoms of gum disease include:

• red, swollen, or tender gums
• bleeding gums
• loose or sensitive teeth
• pain when chewing

People can prevent and treat gum disease with good oral hygiene practices, which include:

• brushing the teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
• flossing daily
• using mouthwash
• having regular dental checkups

For severe gum disease, a dentist may prescribe antimicrobial mouthwash, antibiotic gels, or oral antibiotics.

Kaposi’s sarcoma, or KS, is a type of cancer that causes blue or purple bumps to grow under the skin in the mouth, nose, and anus.

Symptoms of KS may include:

• difficulty eating or swallowing
• nausea
• vomiting
• abdominal pain
• an unexplained cough
• chest pain
• swelling of the extremities

People living with HIV have a much higher risk of developing KS than people without HIV. However, KS is becoming less common now that effective HIV treatments are available.

The treatment for people with KS depends on the number of tumors, their location, and the condition of the immune system. Treatment options include:

Using mouth wash and practicing good oral hygiene may help prevent mouth sores.

Going to a dentist for regular checkups is a good way to prevent mouth sores. Dentists can help people manage symptoms of existing mouth sores and prevent future sores from developing.

Some other ways to prevent mouth sores include:

• taking HIV medications consistently
• practicing good oral hygiene
• quitting smoking
• staying hydrated
• avoiding spicy and acidic foods and beverages
• eating a balanced and healthful diet

It is advisable to see a doctor for mouth sores that:

• are very painful
• last for more than 1–2 weeks
• make it difficult to take medications
• affect a person’s ability to eat, swallow, or talk
• occur alongside other symptoms

Mouth sores are a common symptom of HIV, and they have several possible causes. People can manage most types of mouth sore with proper oral hygiene.

It is also important to see a dentist for regular checkups. Dentists can help manage symptoms of oral infections and prevent recurring mouth sores.

Read the article in Spanish.

90,000 Herpes in the mouth🦷How to treat🦷Kiev LumiDent

The information provided in the article cannot be used to make a diagnosis, prescribe treatment, and does not replace a doctor’s consultation.

Contents:

• What does herpes look like in the mouth?
• Classification and main symptoms of herpes
• Ways of infection with oral herpes
• Causes of herpes in the mouth
• Herpes in children
• How to treat vesicles on the mucous membrane
• Traditional methods of treating herpes
• What needs to be done to prevent herpes in the mouth

What does herpes look like in the mouth?

Many people wonder if there is herpes in the mouth at all, since such a manifestation of the virus is less common than the notorious “cold sore on the lips” in the form of a rash in the mouth and blisters on the skin.

However, numerous photos of herpes in the mouth of different types indicate that herpes stomatitis is common among adults and children with weakened immunity.

If you are wondering what herpes looks like on the tongue, then the infection manifests itself in the form of small formations localized in the oral cavity.

After a few days, the rash bursts and the blisters turn into small, crusty ulcers that cause burning and itching.

The severity of symptoms depends on the stage, in most cases, unpleasant symptoms completely disappear within a maximum of two weeks.

Those who have a causative agent in their blood know firsthand what herpes looks like in the mouth, but is there a way to reduce the number of relapses?

Photo. Herpes of the oral cavity.

Classification and main symptoms of herpes

Herpes in the mouth is more common in a child than in an adult, therefore the disease is considered “childhood”.

It affects babies from the age of two, and during the first year of life, the body retains maternal antibodies that protect against herpes symptoms in the mouth.

Herpes in the mouth is of two types: acute and chronic, in addition, doctors distinguish three forms: mild, moderate and severe, depending on the presence of cumulative symptoms, the degree of deterioration of the patient’s condition and the area of ​​the lesion.

When symptoms of herpes appear in the child’s tongue, it is necessary to immediately begin treatment so that the disease does not turn into a chronic form, characterized by periodic relapses against a background of weakened immunity.

Signs of herpes in the mouth include fever, chronic fatigue syndrome, swollen lymph nodes, redness and swelling of the affected area on the mucous membrane, red rash, itching, pain when chewing food.

Photo. Herpes on the tongue.

Ways of infection with oral herpes

The mechanism of transmission of the virus involves airborne and contact methods of infection.

Infection enters the body through kissing or any other contact with the patient’s skin, as well as as a result of poor hygiene.

For example, if you use one towel or shared utensils, which is one of the most common causes of herpes on the tongue.

Once in the blood, the virus uses the trigeminal nerve to get to the accumulation of nerve cells.

The causative agent may not manifest itself for a long time until a certain moment, then characteristic rashes of herpes appear on the tongue of an adult or child.

People with an acute herpes infection in the throat or blisters on the lips should separate their dishes and use strictly individual utensils, especially if there are children in the house, who often have a more severe process with complications.

Causes of herpes in the mouth

The reasons for the appearance of herpes on the tongue include the following: stress, colds, natural irritants such as wind, cold or direct sunlight, lack of sleep, immunosuppression. Many are interested in the question of whether there can be herpes on the tongue, and how to distinguish it from stomatitis.

It is not required to take tests and undergo diagnostics, since the main differences are visible immediately: stomatitis affects cells on the mucous membrane of the cheeks and the inner surface of the lips, while more often you can find herpes on the root of the tongue, tip of the tongue, gums and palate.

The second difference between the two diseases lies in how ulcers are formed: stomatitis begins immediately with them, and in the second case, rashes appear on the mucous membrane, which eventually open up.

If you find the manifestations of the virus, you need to know which doctor treats herpes in the mouth.

In this case, this is the competence of the dentist, so do not hesitate to contact one of the Lumi-Dent dental clinics for help.

Photo. The location of the herpes on the palate.

Herpes in children

Infection often manifests itself on the mucous membrane, because children have not yet developed strong immunity.

In addition, they often take toys, unwashed vegetables, fruits and other objects into their mouths, so the issue of treating herpes on the tongue most often worries parents.

The rash can be caused by measles or stomatitis, so seek medical advice if blistering occurs.

Diagnostics includes the following components:

• collection of anamnesis;
• examination by a dentist;
• biopsy;
• taking a smear;
• laboratory analyzes.

Parents need to know for sure how and how to treat herpes in the mouth of a child so as not to face the dire consequences of improper therapy.

Self-medication is not recommended, especially when it comes to childhood herpes in the mouth.

There is a high risk of “curing” the disease, because of which it will turn into a latent (chronic) form and will make itself felt in almost every mild cold.

Photo. Pediatric dentist in the process of examining a patient, Lumi-Dent dentistry.

How to treat vesicles on the mucous membrane

The question of how to treat herpes in the mouth is not difficult, since a large number of various topical antiviral drugs are sold in pharmacies.

For example, “Zovirax”, “Megosin”, “Famvir”, “Valtrex”, “Gerpevir”, “Acyclovir” show high efficiency for herpes in the mouth.

These are the most common and affordable remedies for treating herpes on the tongue at home.

To normalize the protective functions of the body, doctors recommend taking medications from the group of immunostimulants, and Ibuprofen or Acetatminophen helps to cope with swelling and itching, but it is not recommended to use them uncontrollably.

If the manifestations of the infection are accompanied by purulent discharge, antibiotics are prescribed in order to stop the extensive multiplication of pathogenic microorganisms.

In this case, it is absolutely impossible to self-medicate – visit the dentist as soon as possible.

Traditional methods of treating herpes

To treat an infection at the tip or root of the tongue, gum or palate, non-pharmacological agents are often used, the effectiveness of which has not been clinically proven, but they help some people.

The most popular folk methods for treating herpes on the tongue and on the mucous membrane:

• Apply milk with a fat content of at least 1.5% with a cotton swab on the blisters every 2-3 hours.
• Grind the licorice root, add a little boiled water to the powder and spread the gruel over the rash areas before going to bed.
• Crush a clove of garlic and apply the mixture to the affected area.

Correctly selected pharmacy medicine for herpes in the mouth will relieve you of the problem much faster and more effectively.

Ointment and medications for herpes in the mouth are guaranteed to help you avoid the transition of the disease into a chronic form, while folk recipes may not help at all or have too little effect.

Photo. Patient with a pediatrician.

What to do to prevent herpes in the mouth

Herpes on the tip of the tongue causes severe discomfort and worsening of the general condition due to infection and symptoms accompanying the disease.

Prevention is always easier than treating herpes in the mouth, so treat colds in a timely manner, strengthen immunity, avoid injuries to the oral cavity, use hygienic lipstick.

In order to minimize the risk of subsequent relapses of internal herpes in the mouth, which are inevitable if you have already had characteristic rashes, it is advisable to inject the vaccine.

It is easy to catch viral herpes in the mouth with typical unpleasant symptoms, so do not kiss someone with a cold sore.

If you know your situation in the photo of herpes in the oral cavity, we recommend that you consult a doctor.

Specialists of the network of dental clinics Lumi-Dent in Kiev will conduct an examination and prescribe effective treatment for an adult or small patient.

More information about the disease can be found on Wikipedia.

Herpes: eliminate the cause, not heal the effect

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Herpes on the lips is a familiar and familiar thing.I bought an ointment – I was worn out. Well, if it pops out on a new one – we will exhaust it again …

But that’s the trouble – this soothing familiarity. Sometimes it is unaware to us that this repetition contains the most, that neither is, the most serious danger: a VIRUS that walks through the blood, manifesting itself outward when it is already completely unbearable for this very blood of ours to cope with it.

And it turns out that HERPES is like an alarm bell, loud ringing of a bell that sucks inside us – a DISADVANTAGE! That you have to run to the doctor… And we in the first-aid kit – what ointment is more usual, cheaper to buy, anoint – and that’s it, there is no “byaki”, the lips are scarlet, beautiful. You can kiss!

And it is unaware that this BYAKA went underground, again walks through the blood, spoils it for whatever the world is worth. But blood is our everything: the more there is all sorts of rubbish running along its ducts, the more chances are to ruin it, to spoil it. And there, you see, and not far from the meeting with the sky …

These are not terrible passions, this is the truth of life, the very one that is in our hands.Oh, how it depends on our carelessness!

In short, HERPES is not harmless bubbles on the lips. This is an external manifestation of the VIRUS that walks through our blood. And if it manifests itself again and again, then this is already a signal that requires immediate elimination of not the consequences (bubbles with ointment), but the reasons.

What does modern science say about this phenomenon? “The peculiarity of the herpes virus is that if it has already entered the human body once, then there is no way to recover from it. At least at the moment, scientists have not yet identified such a drug.It is also worth noting that the virus is transmitted quite easily and in several ways at once, therefore it is spread almost all over the planet. The causative agent of herpes on the lips is the HSV-1 virus and, in more rare cases, HSV-2 (the first and second types). It is worth noting that the type of the second type often causes the progression of herpes on the human genitals and only in rare cases provokes the development of herpes on the lips. Scientists classify herpes simplex viruses as a type of DNA virus.An infectious agent enters the human body through mucous membranes or through an injury to the skin. Continuing the topic, HERPES can lead to BLOOD CANCER. So it goes. However, we repeat once again, our LIFE is in our hands. There is no need to despair, but you should not wait, and even more self-medicate.

Bubbles appeared on the lips – tore off … from the sofa and to the doctor.

The doctor (not everyone, but there are some) has a concept of how to eliminate it: medication, with the help of modern drugs, including intramuscularly.

Such doctors, of course, are not waiting for you on every corner. But in the Academy of Health – there are definitely.

What else can you add? There is no need to lick your lips – time is working for you. The doctor is waiting.

And this is a few more words to add to those who misunderstood:

Treatment of herpes on the lips or other parts of the body should be started as soon as signs of its development appear. It is also important to understand that curing it quickly is a rather difficult task. Pathology can be treated both in stationary and at home.Most people lean towards home therapy. It is better not to self-medicate, but first visit a qualified doctor who will tell you how to treat herpes on the lips correctly. The most effective treatment is vaccination when genital or herpes zoster progresses.

At the Academy of Health, we are successfully coping with this ailment.

90,000 HIV infection. Oral manifestations of HIV

HIV infection – slowly progressive disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus, which belongs to the family of “slow viruses”.By incorporating into the DNA of cells of the immune system that have CD4 receptors, the virus leads to their death, primarily of T-helper lymphocytes. This makes a person defenseless against external and internal infections.

The system of constant immune surveillance, which inhibits the activation of opportunistic microflora, falls out. In parallel, autoimmune reactions can be triggered in the body, while not only infected, but also healthy cells of the body are perceived as foreign.The system of restraining tumor growth is weakened.

As a result, acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) develops, the patient’s body loses its ability to defend itself against infections and tumors, secondary opportunistic diseases arise (caused by pathogens that do not cause disease in a person with normal immunity, but can be deadly for patients with sharply reduced immunity).

Sources of infection are sick people at any time of illness or carriers of the virus.A sufficient concentration of the virus for HIV infection is found only in blood, semen, vaginal secretions and breast milk. Also, the virus is found in saliva, sweat, tears, excrement, urine, but the concentration of the virus is much lower there.

HIV is transmitted:

· Through sexual intercourse. A condom is not 100% reliable against HIV because the virus is smaller than the pores in the material used to make mechanical contraceptives.

Through blood-blood contact (sharing syringes, needles for injecting drugs, when using common utensils for preparing drugs and washing a syringe; through non-sterile medical instruments, when applying tattoos, piercing with non-sterile instruments, getting infected blood on damaged skin or mucous membranes, when transfusing unverified donor blood, organ transplant).

· From mother to child (during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding).

HIV is not transmitted:

· Through shared utensils for eating, when using a shared toilet, shower, bathroom, bed linen.

• With handshakes and hugs.

· Through a kiss (in the absence of damage to the oral mucosa of the partners).

• Through sweat or tears.
• When coughing and sneezing.

· The immunodeficiency virus is very unstable in the external environment, it can survive only in the human body and dies in the external environment. It is impossible to get HIV in the pool, while playing sports, through an insect bite or contact with animals.

There are several stages in the development of HIV infection:

1) Acute HIV infection (from 3 weeks to 3 months from the moment of infection).

The main signs: acute tonsillitis and pharyngitis (inflammation of the tonsils and pharynx), an increase in body temperature, proceeding with chills and sweating.Pains in muscles, joints, headaches, enlargement of lymph nodes, liver, spleen are characteristic, skin rashes are possible as with rubella or measles. Primary manifestations can also occur in the form of a flu-like variant or reactions, where the leading symptoms are headache, fever and swollen lymph nodes (mononucleosis-like syndrome).

2) Asymptomatic HIV infection (can last for years).

During this period, there are no symptoms of the disease or its clinical manifestations.

3) Generalized lymphadenopathy syndrome .

At least 2 lymph nodes are enlarged in at least two different areas, the reaction persists for more than 3 months. Most often, the lymph nodes located on the posterior surface of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, supra- and subclavian and axillary, are affected. In more than 50% of cases, the submental, submandibular, parotid groups of nodes react.

4) AIDS-associated complex . It is characterized by 4 features:

– body weight loss of 10% or more;

– unmotivated prolonged fever and diarrhea;

– torrential night sweat;

– chronic fatigue syndrome.

During this period, there are signs of the disease in the oral cavity (fungal, viral, bacterial lesions of the skin and mucous membranes).

5) Terminal stage – AIDS itself .

Development of life-threatening infections and malignant neoplasms with an irreversible course: pneumocystis pneumonia, intestinal cryptosporidiosis, toxoplasmosis of the brain, candidiasis of the esophagus, bronchi, trachea, lungs, extrapulmonary cryptococcosis, histoplasmosis, atypical mycobacteriosis, progressive encephalopathy and

Some oral manifestations of HIV infection

Diseases of the oral cavity in persons infected with HIV are among the first symptoms of the disease!

Most often associated with HIV:

1) Candidiasis (thrush) of the oral cavity.

Oral cavity candidiasis occurs in 75% of people with AIDS-associated complex and AIDS. This is a fungal infection of the oral mucosa caused by fungi of the genus Candida.The patient may have no sensations or complaints of dry mouth, burning sensation, pain in the papillae of the tongue, a feeling of tightening of the mucous membrane of the lips.

There are several forms of candidiasis:

• Pseudomembranous (diphtheria) candidiasis – characterized by the presence of a white or yellowish plaque on the bright red mucous membrane of the oral cavity. When scraped off, the plaque is removed, revealing red or bleeding spots. Any part of the oral mucosa can be involved in the process.
• Erythematous (atrophic) candidiasis – manifests itself in the form of a red, flat, barely distinguishable lesion of the back of the tongue or hard or soft palate. The color of the affected mucous membrane varies from light pink to purple-red, there is no plaque. Patients complain of a burning sensation in the mouth, most often – when eating salty or spicy foods and drinking acidic drinks.
• Chronic hyperplastic candidiasis is the rarest form. White, dark brownish lesions appear on the mucosa, which rise above the mucous membrane and do not scrape off, have a rough surface.Lesions can be in the form of spots, stripes, rings.

2) Hairy leukoplakia – more often appears on the lateral surfaces of the tongue, sometimes it can go to the entire back and even the root of the tongue. Caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. The surface of the mucous membrane is uneven and covered with growths that resemble hairs, ranging in length from a few millimeters to 2–3 cm. The lesions have a wrinkled, “corrugated” surface with indistinct boundaries. A characteristic feature of the growths is a tight attachment to the mucosa.

3) HIV gingivitis – characterized by acute and sudden inflammation of the gums, usually in the anterior portion of the upper and lower dentition, accompanied by spontaneous bleeding. Signs may disappear for a short time, but then relapses occur. Inflammation occurs even with good oral hygiene and no local risk factors.

4) HIV-necrotizing gingivitis – begins suddenly (less often gradually) with bleeding gums when brushing teeth, pain, bad breath.The gums become bright red, edematous, the marginal gums and interdental papillae die off, acquiring a yellow-gray color;

5) HIV periodontitis – any destructive disease of the ligamentous apparatus of the teeth with loss of bone tissue, the formation of deep pockets, tooth mobility, but without signs of ulceration, tissue death. As a rule, the treatment carried out does not have a tangible effect.

6) Kaposi’s sarcoma is a malignant neoplasm that most often develops in men.It is associated with the human herpes virus type 8. In most cases, the skin is affected first, and then the oral mucosa. Skin lesions in HIV-infected individuals are more often located on the trunk, arms, head and neck. On the face, the skin of the nose is most often affected. In the oral cavity, sarcoma foci are mainly found on the hard palate and gums. The onset of the disease is acute, sudden. There are spots of bright red, purple, purple color with hemorrhages. In later stages, the elements darken, increase in size, can rise, divide into lobules and ulcerate.Ulceration in the mouth is more common than in the skin. On the gum, lesions can appear in the form of an epulis (a focus of proliferation of connective tissue on the gum).

7) Non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas – manifested by the formation of a dense, elastic, reddish or faintly purple swelling that can ulcerate. The most common localization of lesions is the gums and mucous membrane of the hard and soft palate.

8) Manifestations of viral infections:

• Herpes simplex – fever, malaise, swollen lymph nodes are noted.After 1-2 days, bubbles appear on any part of the oral mucosa, lips, and skin. In the oral cavity, rashes are often localized on the gums and palate. Bubbles quickly open up with the formation of painful areas of the mucous membrane. Healing occurs in 10-14 days. In the future, the disease can recur, which is provoked by exposure to the sun, SARS, trauma, stress and weakening of the immune system. Resistance to treatment is noted.
• Herpes zoster – begins with the appearance of tingling, itching, a feeling of “creeping”, as well as neuralgic pain along the branches of the trigeminal nerve.After a few days, redness appears in this area with unilateral blistering eruptions. After their opening, erosion is formed, covered with a grayish bloom. Healing occurs in 2–3 weeks, but pain can persist for several months. The development of a necrotic ulcerative form of the disease is possible.
• Human papillomavirus – formation of papillomas, warts, warts on the skin and mucous membranes. These are nodular lesions that have clear boundaries, rise above the surface of the mucous membrane and are covered with papillary growths.The most common localization is the area of ​​the lips, gums, hard palate, tongue. Resistant to surgical treatment.

Diagnostics

Consultations of a large number of specialists are required, including an infectious disease specialist, immunologist, oncologist, dentist and others, depending on the specifics of the course of the disease.

Groups at risk of HIV infection:

· persons using injecting narcotic drugs, as well as common utensils required for the preparation of such drugs, this also includes the sexual partners of such persons;

· persons who, regardless of their actual orientation, practice any unprotected sex;

· persons who have undergone a donor blood transfusion procedure without prior screening;

• doctors of various profiles;
• persons suffering from one or another venereal disease;

· persons directly involved in the field of prostitution, as well as persons using their services.

Various clinical manifestations of HIV infection have common features – persistent course and resistance to therapy.

Should alert:

an indication of a recent acute illness with flu-like or mononucleosis-like (similar to symptoms of infectious mononucleosis: fever, nasopharyngeal lesions in the form of sinusitis, tonsillitis or pharyngitis, enlargement of more than two groups of lymph nodes, enlarged liver, spleen, specific changes in blood counts) syndrome outside the epidemic ;

· prolonged fever with an unclear cause;

· enlargement of lymph nodes of different groups;

· increasing weight loss;

persistent diarrhea;

severe pneumonia;

· lingering purulent-inflammatory diseases;

hairy leukoplakia;

Kaposi’s sarcoma at a young age.

Lab Tests:

Immunoassay (ELISA, ELISA)

ELISA-positive result requires mandatory verification using another series of test systems. When a repeated ELISA-positive result is obtained, confirmation by immunoblotting is necessary (determination of antibodies to individual antigens of the virus).

In order for a patient to be recognized as HIV-infected, he must have received twice positive ELISA results, confirmed by a positive immunoblot test.

It should be remembered that for a fairly long time (on average up to 3, and sometimes up to 6 months or more), HIV-infected persons remain seronegative (that is, the test results during this period will be negative). Antigenic markers of HIV are detected in the blood much earlier than antibodies (up to 8 weeks).

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) can be informative, which allows detecting the genetic material of the virus in the blood.

The stage of the disease, treatment tactics and prognosis can also be determined by the level of CD4 + T-lymphocytes and the ratio of CD4 + / CD8 +.

Prevention

· Accidental sexual partners should be avoided. Any such sexual intercourse requires the use of mechanical contraception;

· Refusal to take drugs. A person under the influence of psychoactive substances loses the ability to think critically, and may, in particular, allow the use of one syringe among a whole group of drug addicts, which may be HIV-positive;

· To prevent the transmission of infection from mother to child, you should follow the instructions of the attending physician, plan a pregnancy and come for follow-up examinations.Treatment measures are included in the plan to prepare an HIV-infected pregnant woman for childbirth and subsequent childcare. In particular, you will need to stop breastfeeding.

· Periodically it is necessary to undergo laboratory tests for HIV, especially for people at risk. If an infection is detected, you must immediately proceed to timely, adequate treatment prescribed by your doctor. The earlier treatment is started, the better the prognosis and the more likely it is to prevent the severe consequences of the virus on the body and the development of AIDS.

Doctor-intern Veremeychik D.V.

Everything about mouth ulcers – causes, treatment, prevention

Mouth ulcers are quite common, but with normal immunity, they usually do not reach impressive sizes. The most common ulcerative disease of the oral mucosa is stomatitis. These are many well-known white sores in the mouth, which cause severe pain and burning when eating.In addition, many types of bacteria and viruses can cause mouth ulcers. Treatment of ulcers is carried out after finding out the cause of their appearance and the causative agent. The list below lists the diseases that cause ulcers, in order of decreasing prevalence.

Most common types of mouth ulcers

1. Aphthous stomatitis (recurrent form) – characterized by regular rashes of one or more small white ulcers on the oral mucosa. They can be located on the palate, cheeks, mucous membrane of the lips and tongue (except for the gums).Healing of rashes takes place within 7 days, and their regularity ranges from once a month to twice a year (seasonal exacerbations).
2. Hypertyform stomatitis is numerous sores that resemble herpes. They are located as islands on the lower surface of the tongue and the floor of the mouth.
3. Candidiasis (thrush) can also cause ulcers covered with a whitish film. Appears more often in children or people with weakened immune systems
4. Traumatic ulcer or erosion – occurs due to damage to the mucous membrane.With continued trauma, the ulcer expands and becomes persistent. It occurs after trauma with dental instruments, a hard toothbrush, biting the tongue or cheek, sometimes from smoking (on the lips).
5. Necrotizing gingivostomatitis is an acute and dangerous viral disease characterized by ulcers with a greenish coating and bleeding bottom. The gum tissue swells and bleeds. Ulcers are most often localized on the inner surface of the cheeks, palatine arch and tonsils. There is a sharp unpleasant odor from the mouth.
6. Zayed – ulceration in the corners of the mouth. They occur with an improper bite due to the accumulation of saliva and bacteria, with a lack of vitamins, as well as with immunodeficiency.
7. Prosthetic ulcers – appear with improper selection of a prosthesis or poor care of it.

General diseases

Ulcers in the mouth can be a symptom of serious general diseases of the body. Most often these are tuberculosis, syphilis and HIV. If ulcers in tuberculosis and syphilis are immediately distinguishable by a specialist in their appearance, then with HIV, common candidiasis or stomatitis often develops, quickly taking exaggerated forms with perforated ulcers or damage to bone tissue.It should be borne in mind that ulcers in severe diseases are large and deeply penetrating, so you should not suspect terrible things when small ulcers appear.

Mouth ulcer treatment

Ordinary stomatitis is easy to recognize on your own, but other types of ulcers require a visit to a specialist. The doctor conducts bacteriological examination, makes a differential diagnosis and prescribes the optimal treatment regimen depending on the cause. In case of chronic ulcers, measures are taken to generally strengthen the immune system, fortification and hardening.In addition, special treatment is prescribed, most often local, but in some cases – general. In advanced situations, surgery is performed.

Treatment of mouth ulcers caused by bacteria (tubercle bacillus, streptococci, etc.) is carried out using appropriate antibiotics. Traumatic ulcers disappear within a week if irritating factors are eliminated: a tooth fragment, smoking, a hard brush, hot, sour or spicy food, etc. Stomatitis is as common a chronic disease as sinusitis.At the moment, there is no treatment method that allows you to get rid of it once and for all. But alternative methods of treatment are quite effective. In case of ulceration of herpetic elements, treatment with antiviral drugs is effective.

Drug treatment

Depending on the pathogen, either antifungal drugs (Fluconazole, Ketoconazole) or antibacterial drugs (Ingalipt, Stomaidin, Chlorhexidine, etc.) are prescribed. Special creams and gels are used to relieve ulcers.Inside take vitamins of group B, vitamin C, as well as foods rich in phosphorus and iron. With tuberculosis or syphilis, general treatment with antibacterial drugs is carried out, with immunodeficiency – with antiviral drugs.

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90,000 Herpes in the mouth – a photo of how the virus of various forms manifests itself

Introduction to the disease

Photos of patients showing herpes in the mouth are full of a variety of forms of manifestation of the virus.In the overwhelming majority of cases, this type of herpes is nothing more than herpetic stomatitis.

Pathogen – who is he?

Photo of herpes on the tongue, tonsils, palate – merit of herpes virus type 1. It is he who, against the background of a weakening of the immune system, manifests itself in the mouth in the form of characteristic vesicular rashes.

Herpes in the mouth Close-up photo

Above is a photo of what herpes looks like in the mouth in about half of the cases.Bubble eruptions affect the mucous membranes and can spread further – to the tonsils, palate, under the tongue. The most common cases are clearly illustrated by photographs of herpes on the lips.

Symptoms of the disease

From the photo, what herpes looks like on the tongue, it is clear without words that the patient experiences severe painful sensations while eating, and sometimes when talking. Because of such specific symptoms, it is not uncommon for patients with herpes of the mouth to lose their appetite until they are completely cured.

Ways of infection

Above in the photo – herpes on the palate in the mouth. The localization of the rash indicates that the herpes virus infection occurred either by airborne droplets or through household items. For example, in order to become infected, a person only needs to use a cutlery shared with the carrier of the virus.

The patient’s well-being

A photo of herpes under the tongue reflects the features of herpetic eruptions, but is not able to reflect the severity of the disease.So, a person infected with a virus experiences weakness throughout the body, does not sleep well, his mucous membranes of the nose can become inflamed, and the temperature rises.

A bright selection of photos of herpes on the body – http://obolezni.com/venericheskie/herpes/gerpes-na-tele-foto

Herpes virus in the mouth in children

Children, according to statistics, suffer from herpes virus several times more often than adults. The photo of herpes in the mouth demonstrating the need for treatment above shows a typical example of herpetic stomatitis at the initial stage.

Herpes in the mouth Photo of the specificity of the lesion

IMPORTANT TO KNOW!

Photo of herpes in children and adults in the mouth allows one to judge about several forms of mucosal lesions. The mild, most common form proceeds quickly and without consequences. Moderate severity is accompanied by toxic syndrome. A rare, severe form of oral herpes requires hospitalization.

Reasons of infection

In the photo – herpes in the mouth in adults, treatment of which is required due to weakened immunity.Normally, the human body is resistant to this type of virus. But if the natural defense is weakening, the manifestations of infection upon contact with the patient will not keep you waiting.

Complicated forms of herpes of the mouth

In the photo in adults, herpes on the tongue does not always look as harmless as herpetic stomatitis in a child. With a complicated course, the disease causes the formation of deep defects on the mucous membranes, which heal for a very long time and hurt.

How to treat?

No matter how the herpes appears on the tongue in the photo, it is impossible to treat the virus until it is completely destroyed inside the body.After the first encounter with herpes virus, a person will forever remain its carrier.

Supportive therapy

To eliminate the symptoms of herpes in the tongue, the photo of which is presented here, tablets based on acyclovir are used. The dosage of the drug is prescribed by the doctor, and herpes in the mouth is treated strictly under the supervision of the doctor.

Duration of taking medications

Taking pills to combat the symptoms of herpes at the root of the tongue, as in the photo, up to 5 times a day for several days.

Ointments against herpes

The demonstration of the treatment of herpes under the tongue with ointments in the photo is more of a publicity stunt. It does not make sense to use topical agents in the case of herpes in the mouth due to the fact that they are easily washed off the mucous membranes without having time to act.

Means for relieving symptoms

To relieve the symptoms of herpes on the gums, as shown in the photo, decoctions of herbs, sprays like Tantum Verde, special pastes will help.

We also recommend to see pictures of genital herpes in men and women – http://obolezni.com/venericheskie/herpes/genitalnyj-gerpes-foto

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90,000 Glossitis – inflammation of the tongue, manifested as a result of injury, exposure to pathogenic microorganisms or other diseases

Glossitis is an inflammation of the tongue, manifested as a result of an injury, exposure to pathogenic microorganisms or other diseases.This term can denote systematic changes in the language (vitamin deficiency, pernicious anemia, acute infections and some dermatoses) and abnormalities in its structure (folded, diamond-shaped tongue, and others).

What causes glossitis?

The causes of glossitis are varied – it can be both damage to the tongue and exposure to bacteria and viruses. In the presence of a local infection, glossitis can be caused by viruses and bacteria, including the herpes virus.The presence of burns, mechanical injuries of the oral cavity and tongue especially contribute to the development of the infectious process. Risk factors provoking the development of glossitis include alcohol, nicotine, hot spices, and hot food. Sometimes it can even be an allergic reaction to mouthwash and mouthwash, toothpaste, or caramel.

Glossitis can also manifest itself in the presence of certain systemic diseases, for example, with iron deficiency anemia, red flat deprivation, with erythema, B-vitamin deficiency states, syphilis, aphtosis and many others.In rare cases, the exact cause of glossitis cannot be established.

What are the symptoms of glossitis (inflammation of the tongue)?

Depending on the location and cause, different types of glossitis can be distinguished. It is worth paying attention to the most common:

Deep glossitis – the inflammatory process is located in the thickness of the tongue and manifests itself as an abscess or phlegmon.

Phlegmonous glossitis – is located at the bottom of the oral cavity and causes acute inflammation in the neck and chin.

Superficial glossitis – This is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the tongue.

Catarrhal glossitis – A rather dense coating on the tongue, sometimes leading to swelling, induration and limited mobility. There may be areas that are bright red, saliva profuse, and a burning sensation in the tongue.

Ulcerative glossitis – This species is characterized by the presence of a dark gray coating on the tongue. When it is removed, rather painful bleeding erosion and ulcers become visible, and bad breath occurs.

Desquamative glossitis – is usually considered a symptom of a disorder in the functioning of certain body systems, such as metabolic disorders or stomach damage. It manifests itself in the form of inflammation of the mucous membrane on the back of the tongue.

Folded glossitis – is a congenital anomaly that manifests itself in the form of folds along the back of the tongue, directed in different directions. As a rule, it does not cause complaints.

Rhomboid median glossitis – as well as folded is a congenital disease. It is characterized by the appearance of diamond-shaped papillae on the back of the lingual dorsum. Treatment is usually not required, only in the presence of exacerbations, in which it is recommended to perform excision of the altered area.

Hairy black tongue – also called villous tongue. This species is characterized by the growth and keratinization of the filiform papillae. Experts cannot determine the exact cause of this disease.

Gunter’s glossitis – is a characteristic early sign of malignant anemia. Patients often complain of a burning sensation of the tongue, especially in the area of ​​its tip.

Interstitial glossitis – is a form of syphilitic lesion of the tongue.In the presence of a disease, the tongue becomes practically immobile, it thickens. In the absence of timely treatment, connective tissue completely and irreversibly replaces muscle tissue.

Common symptoms of glossitis include such manifestations as – changes in the structure or color of the tongue, an increase in its size, plaque, burning sensation, difficulty in swallowing or chewing food, speech. If you have at least one of these symptoms, you should definitely consult an experienced doctor.Only the dentist prescribes the tests necessary for checking and determines the treatment of glossitis.

How is glossitis diagnosed?

At the first appearance of symptoms of glossitis, you need to consult a dentist. The doctor will examine the area of ​​inflammation of the tongue, determine the absence or presence of papillomas, ask questions that help to most accurately identify the causes of the development of the infection, and prescribe the tests necessary to identify systemic diseases.

How is tongue inflammation (glossitis) treated?

First of all, it is required to eliminate the direct source of the infection – without this step, treatment will not make sense. For treatment, various drugs can be used – anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, immunocorrectors and others. Hydrocortisone or prednisopone can help relieve symptoms of inflammation. But it is worth remembering that in addition to indications for use, all drugs also have contraindications, so they can be used only as directed by the attending physician.

The damaged surface of the tongue is disinfected in the form of applications, baths or rinses using antiseptic solutions – potassium permanganate, furacilin, chlorhexidine and others. To reduce pain, the doctor may prescribe anesthetics, in some cases in combination with antiseptics – Kamistad, lidocaine. Acceleration of tissue regeneration is facilitated by applications with drugs of a certain group – an oil solution or ointment with vitamin A, beta-carotene, rosehip seed oil, “Vinisol”.Before the inflammatory process stops, irritating food must be excluded from the diet.

In the presence of ulcers and erosions, before starting treatment with antiseptics, it will be necessary to remove necrotic or fibrin plaque with a tampon or applications using proteolytic enzymes (chymotrypsin, trypsin, and others). In the case of severe hyperkeratosis, it will be necessary to remove the keratinized area operatively. Advanced forms of glossitis can be treated with surgical methods.

Oral hygiene is no less important – you need to brush your teeth at least twice a day when using high-quality toothpaste.

Treatment prognosis: catarrhal glossitis disappears in a few days, with purulent glossitis, a radical autopsy and active antibiotic therapy will be required – they largely predetermine a favorable outcome.

Prevention of glossitis

Most often, the disease is much easier to prevent than to treat.For this reason, dentists recommend the following preventive measures:

• observance of dental and oral hygiene;
• regular examination by a dentist;
• reducing the amount of hot spices that irritate the mucous membranes of food;
• should not abuse smoking and alcohol.

Timely and effective treatment easily allows you to get rid of glossitis, while the complete absence of treatment leads to irreversible and sad consequences.

90,000 To treat teeth or not when the patient came with herpes on the lips?

It’s time to write a post about the long-suffering situation before the dental appointment “Herpes on the lips …”

The answer to the question is no: going to the doctor with the herpes virus in the acute stage is dangerous in the first place for you and can seriously harm your health.

A cold that pops up on the lips is a manifestation of the herpes simplex virus type 1.This is a chronic disease, and there are many reasons for its exacerbation, from banal fatigue to reduced immunity.

So, I will try to acquaint you with the most common reasons for postponing a visit to the dentist:

• Self-Infection . During treatment, an active virus from the lips can pass into the oral cavity, deep into the gums and even under implants and prostheses. The problem here is that the symptoms of such a hard-to-reach herpes are much more difficult and expensive to remove, not to mention the unpleasant sensations that will accompany them.In the worst case, it is even possible to remove implants and prostheses, and then reinstall them, which will cost much more than treating the herpes itself under them.
• Additional infection in case of damage to the foci of the virus. During manipulations, the dentist can accidentally touch the herpes bubbles and introduce a secondary infection, and this is a gamut of complications, up to a strong fever and other complications with immunity.
• Provocation of the virus for additional spread .During dental treatment or removal, the soft tissues of the oral cavity are injured, and this puts a strain on your health, which in such conditions will not be able to further fight against herpes and the disease can drag on for a long time with many additional foci of the virus.

The list of complications can be continued, however, these reasons are enough to postpone a planned visit to the dentist.