How high is too high for a fever. When should you go to the ER for a fever. How is a fever treated in the emergency room. What causes dangerously high fevers in adults and children. How long do fevers typically last before requiring medical attention.

Understanding Fever: What It Is and Why It Occurs

A fever is a temporary increase in body temperature, typically indicating that the body is fighting off an infection or other illness. For most adults, a normal body temperature ranges between 97°F and 99°F, with 98.6°F generally accepted as the standard. When body temperature rises to 100.4°F or higher, it’s considered a fever.

Fevers serve an important purpose in the body’s defense mechanism. They can:

• Stimulate the immune system to produce more white blood cells
• Increase the production of antibodies
• Make the body less hospitable for invading pathogens

Common symptoms accompanying a fever include:

• Sweating
• Chills and shivering
• Headache
• Body aches and muscle pain
• Fatigue and weakness
• Loss of appetite

What Causes a Fever?

Fevers can be triggered by various factors, including:

• Viral infections (e.g., flu, common cold)
• Bacterial infections
• Parasitic infections
• Inflammatory conditions
• Certain medications
• Heat exhaustion
• Some cancers
• Autoimmune disorders

Understanding the underlying cause of a fever is crucial for proper treatment and management.

The Significance of a 103°F Fever: Is It Dangerous?

A fever of 103°F (39.4°C) is considered high-grade and potentially dangerous, especially if it persists. While the body can generally tolerate temporary spikes in temperature, sustained high fevers can lead to complications.

Is a 103°F fever always cause for alarm? Not necessarily, but it warrants close monitoring and often requires medical attention, particularly in children and older adults. The duration and accompanying symptoms play a crucial role in determining the severity of the situation.

Potential Risks of High Fevers

Prolonged high fevers can lead to various complications, including:

• Dehydration
• Confusion and delirium
• Seizures (particularly in young children)
• Organ damage (in extreme cases)

It’s important to note that the fever itself is rarely harmful; rather, it’s often the underlying condition causing the fever that poses the greatest risk.

When to Seek Emergency Care for a Fever

While many fevers can be managed at home, certain situations call for immediate medical attention. Here are some guidelines for when to visit the emergency room:

For Adults:

• Fever of 103°F (39.4°C) or higher
• Fever accompanied by severe headache, stiff neck, or confusion
• Persistent fever lasting more than three days
• Fever with difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Fever in individuals with compromised immune systems

For Children:

• Any fever in infants under 3 months old
• Fever above 102°F (38.9°C) in children 3-12 months old
• Fever lasting more than 24 hours in children under 2 years old
• Fever accompanied by lethargy, irritability, or persistent vomiting
• Fever with signs of dehydration (dry mouth, sunken eyes, no tears when crying)

These guidelines are not exhaustive, and any situation causing significant concern warrants medical evaluation.

Fever Management: Home Remedies and Medical Treatments

Managing a fever often involves a combination of home care and, when necessary, medical intervention. Here are some strategies for fever management:

Home Remedies:

• Rest and stay hydrated
• Use over-the-counter fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (follow dosage instructions carefully)
• Apply cool compresses to the forehead, wrists, and calves
• Take lukewarm baths
• Dress in light, breathable clothing

Medical Treatments:

In a medical setting, treatment for high fevers may include:

• Intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration
• Prescription-strength antipyretics (fever reducers)
• Antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected
• Treatment of the underlying cause (e.g., antiviral medications for influenza)

The specific treatment plan will depend on the cause and severity of the fever, as well as the patient’s overall health status.

Understanding Fever Duration: How Long is Too Long?

The duration of a fever can vary greatly depending on its cause. Most fevers associated with common illnesses like the flu typically last 2-4 days. However, some may persist for longer periods.

How long should a fever last before you become concerned? For adults, a fever lasting more than three days warrants medical attention. For children, especially those under 2 years old, a fever lasting more than 24 hours should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Factors Influencing Fever Duration:

• The underlying cause (viral vs. bacterial infections)
• The individual’s immune system strength
• Age (children often experience higher, more prolonged fevers)
• Treatment methods employed

Persistent fevers, even if not extremely high, may indicate a more serious underlying condition and should be investigated by a healthcare professional.

Special Considerations: Fevers in Infants and Young Children

Fevers in infants and young children require special attention due to their developing immune systems and inability to communicate symptoms effectively. Parents and caregivers should be particularly vigilant when it comes to fevers in this age group.

Guidelines for Infants:

• Any fever in newborns up to 3 months old requires immediate medical attention
• For babies 3-6 months old, a temperature of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher warrants a call to the doctor
• Babies 6-24 months old with a temperature of 103°F (39.4°C) or higher should be evaluated

Signs of Concern in Young Children:

• Lethargy or extreme irritability
• Refusal to eat or drink
• Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears when crying, fewer wet diapers)
• Difficulty waking or staying awake
• Seizures or convulsions

When in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and seek medical advice for fevers in young children.

The Role of Emergency Rooms in Fever Treatment

Emergency rooms play a crucial role in the evaluation and treatment of high fevers, especially those accompanied by concerning symptoms. When you visit an ER for a fever, you can expect a comprehensive assessment and prompt treatment.

ER Fever Evaluation Process:

1. Triage: Initial assessment of vital signs and symptoms
2. Medical history: Detailed questioning about the onset and progression of symptoms
3. Physical examination: Thorough check for signs of infection or other underlying conditions
4. Diagnostic tests: May include blood tests, urine analysis, or imaging studies
5. Treatment: Administration of fever-reducing medications, fluids, and other necessary interventions

Emergency rooms are equipped to handle severe cases of fever and can provide rapid relief and treatment for potentially life-threatening conditions.

Preventing Complications: Monitoring and Managing High Fevers

While fevers are often a natural part of the body’s defense mechanism, high fevers can lead to complications if not properly managed. Monitoring fever progression and taking appropriate steps to reduce temperature can help prevent potential issues.

Tips for Effective Fever Monitoring:

• Use a reliable thermometer and check temperature regularly
• Keep a log of temperature readings and accompanying symptoms
• Monitor fluid intake and output to prevent dehydration
• Watch for changes in mental status or behavior
• Be aware of any pre-existing health conditions that may complicate fever management

Strategies to Prevent Fever-Related Complications:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
• Use fever-reducing medications as directed
• Rest and avoid overexertion
• Maintain a cool, comfortable environment
• Seek medical attention if fever persists or worsens despite home treatment

By staying vigilant and taking proactive measures, you can help ensure that high fevers are managed effectively and safely.

Understanding when a fever is cause for concern and knowing how to respond appropriately can make a significant difference in managing health outcomes. While a temperature of 103°F is indeed high and warrants attention, the overall context of the fever, including duration, accompanying symptoms, and the individual’s health status, are equally important factors to consider. By staying informed and seeking medical care when necessary, you can navigate fever situations with confidence and ensure the best possible care for yourself and your loved ones.

How To Know If You Should Go To The ER For A Fever

If you are otherwise healthy and alert, having a low-grade fever may not necessarily be cause for concern. However, an elevated temperature can be indicative of another process or illness that needs to be treated. A severe or prolonged fever can even cause complications on its own. Because there are a number of possible causes of fever, many of which trigger a similar set of symptoms, it can be challenging to self-diagnose your condition. The expert team of board-certified physicians at both of iCare ER & Urgent Care’s convenient locations in Frisco and Fort Worth, TX provides prompt and reliable evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for patients presenting with fever. Find out more about the possible causes of fever here, and learn what situations may warrant a visit to the ER for fever.

What is a fever?

For most adults, a normal body temperature is between 97°F and 99°F, though 98.6°F is generally accepted as the standard of normal. When a patient’s body temperature becomes elevated to 100.4°F or higher, he or she is considered to have a fever. Oftentimes, a fever indicates that the body is fighting off a virus, infection, or another pathogen. Common symptoms of a fever include:

• Sweating
• Chills
• Headache
• Body aches
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite

What causes a fever?

There are a variety of potential reasons why a person’s body temperature may become elevated, either temporarily or for several days or weeks. Some of the most common causes of a fever include:

• Virus
• Infection
• Cold and/or flu
• Stomach bug
• Recent vaccination
• Heat exhaustion

How long does a fever last?

Depending on the cause of the fever, the patient’s overall health, what treatments are given, and other factors, a fever can last anywhere from several hours to several weeks. For some of the most common illnesses, such as the flu, most people demonstrate an elevated temperature for about 2 – 4 days.

How high is too high for a fever?

Fever of 103°F or above is considered high grade and should be treated immediately. However, even a low-grade fever may be a sign of a dangerous problem for infants and babies. If you are concerned about fever in your infant, your child, or yourself, visit your nearest Fort Worth or Frisco emergency room within iCare ER & Urgent Care’s unique dual-hybrid facility.

When should you go to the ER for a fever?

For patients who are otherwise healthy, alert, and have an obvious explanation for their low-grade fever – such as a cold – at-home remedies and monitoring may be sufficient. However, any fever above 103°F should be treated immediately in the ER. In addition, if you or your child are experiencing any of the following symptoms in conjunction with a fever, a trip to the ER is warranted:

• Confusion
• Severe pain (abdominal pain, headache, muscle pain, etc. )
• Sensitivity to light
• Skin rash or irritation
• Protracted nausea or vomiting
• Inability to eat or drink
• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Seizure
• Inability to stay awake
• Fever of 103°F or higher
• Fever lasting longer than 3 – 4 days (children)
• Any fever (infants)

How is a fever treated in the ER?

To determine the cause of your fever, one of our board-certified ER physicians in Frisco or Fort Worth will perform a thorough examination, take a detailed health history, measure certain vital signs, and possibly draw laboratory studies. Depending on the severity of your condition, the cause of your fever, and other factors, your physician will recommend the most appropriate course of treatment, which may include antibiotics, other medications, fluids, and rest.

Get prompt treatment and rapid relief for your fever by visiting your nearest emergency room in Frisco or Fort Worth, TX

Although some fevers can be treated at home, many cases of fever may indicate a serious problem and should be evaluated immediately. If you are concerned about a high-grade fever or any fever that is accompanied by abnormal or protracted symptoms, visit your nearest iCare ER & Urgent Care center in either Fort Worth or Frisco, TX to be evaluated by one of our professional board-certified physicians for your acute illness and to get the effective treatment and rapid relief you deserve.

In Adults, in Children, in Babies, Treatment, and More

Fevers will typically go away within a few days. Medications, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of rest can help relieve symptoms. Medical care may be needed for severe fevers, or for infants younger than 3 months.

A fever is when your body temperature is higher than normal. The average body temperature is around 98.6°F (37°C).

Your average body temperature may be higher or lower than that. It can also fluctuate slightly throughout the day. These fluctuations can vary with age and how active you are. Your body temperature is typically highest in the afternoon.

When your body temperature rises higher than normal, it may be a sign that your body is in the process of fighting off an infection. It’s usually not a cause for alarm.

The following temperatures or higher indicate a fever:

• Adults and children: 100.4°F (38°C) (oral)
• Babies (under 1 year): 99°F (37.2°C) (armpit) or 100.4°F (38°C) (rectal)

Read on to learn more about what to expect with a fever, how and when to treat it, and when to seek help.

The general symptoms associated with a fever can include:

• chills
• aches and pains
• headache
• sweating or feeling flushed
• lack of appetite
• dehydration
• weakness or lack of energy

Febrile seizures in children

Children between 6 months and 5 years of age may develop febrile seizures. These seizures can occur during very high fevers. About one-third of children who have a febrile seizure will have another. Typically, children outgrow febrile seizures.

It can be very scary when your child has a febrile seizure. If this happens, you should do the following:

• Place your child on their side.
• Don’t place anything in your child’s mouth.
• Seek medical attention if you suspect your child is having or had a febrile seizure.

Low-grade vs. high-grade fevers

A low-grade fever for adults and children is when your body temperature is elevated slightly above normal. This is generally between 98.8°F (37.1°C) and 100.3°F (38°C).

People with high-grade fevers should seek medical advice. For adults, this is an oral temperature of 103°F (39.4°C). For children over 3 months old, this is a rectal temperature of 102°F (38.9°F) or higher.

If your baby is under 3 months old and has a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, seek medical attention immediately.

When a fever breaks

When a fever breaks, your temperature will return to what’s normal for you, usually around 98. 6°F (37°C). You may start to sweat or feel flushed as this is happening.

In adults and children

In cases of a mild or low-grade fever, it may not be a good idea to try to bring your temperature down too quickly. The presence of the fever could be helpful in fighting off an infection in your body.

In case of a high fever or a fever that’s causing discomfort, the following treatments may be recommended:

• Over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Popular options include ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). They can help relieve your aches and pains and lower your temperature. Be sure to check dosing information for children.
• Antibiotics. Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics if you have a bacterial infection that’s causing your fever. Antibiotics can’t be used to treat viral infections.
• Sufficient fluid intake. A fever can lead to dehydration. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids, like water, juice, or broth. Rehydration solutions such as Pedialyte can be used for young children.
• Keep cool. Wear lighter clothing, keep your environment cool, and sleep with light blankets. Taking a lukewarm bath may also help. The key is to keep cool, but not to induce shivering. This can make you feel worse.
• Rest. You’ll need sufficient rest to recover from whatever is causing your fever. Avoid any strenuous activities that could elevate your body temperature.

Warning

Children and anyone under the age of 18 should never take aspirin for an illness. This is because of the risk of a rare, but fatal, condition called Reye’s syndrome.

In babies

If your baby has a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, seek medical attention immediately. Don’t give your baby OTC medications at home without first consulting their doctor for dosing and guidance.

A fever could be the only indication of a more serious condition. Your baby may need to receive intravenous (IV) medication and be monitored by a doctor until their condition improves.

In adults

Seek medical attention if you’re experiencing a fever with any of the following symptoms:

• a fever of 103°F (39.4°C) or higher
• vomiting or diarrhea
• difficulty breathing
• pain in your chest
• severe headache
• skin rash
• abdominal pain
• painful urination
• a stiff neck or pain in your neck when you bend your head forward
• feelings of confusion
• light sensitivity
• being dizzy or lightheaded

In children and babies

Seek medical attention for your child if they:

• are younger than 3 months old and have a fever with a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
• are over 3 months old and have a fever of 102°F (38.9°F) or higher
• are over 3 months old and have had a fever for longer than 2 days

Also seek medical attention for your child if they have a fever and:

• difficulty breathing
• headache
• skin rash
• lack of energy or appear listless or lethargic
• are inconsolable or crying continuously
• stiff neck
• appear confused
• lack of appetite
• aren’t consuming adequate fluids to produce wet diapers

A fever is when your body temperature is higher than normal. This is typically a sign that your body is in the process of fighting off some sort of infection. Fevers will typically go away within a few days.

Most low-grade and mild fevers are nothing to worry about. You should be able to relieve discomfort by taking OTC medications, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of rest.

Any fever in an infant younger than 3 months, or high grade-fevers in adults and children, should be assessed by a medical professional.

Fever – Humanitas

Fever is usually a signal that something is wrong in the body. In an adult, fever is accompanied by malaise, however, as a rule, a temperature increase of no more than 103 F (39.4 C) is considered harmless. In children of the first days of life and infants, even a slight increase in temperature may indicate the presence of a serious infection.

However, the severity of the fever does not always indicate the severity of the underlying condition. A mild illness may cause a fever with a significant increase in temperature, and a severe illness may be accompanied by a slight increase in temperature.

The fever usually resolves within a few days. A number of over-the-counter drugs can lower a fever, but in some cases it is better not to lower it. An increase in body temperature greatly contributes to the body’s fight against a number of infectious diseases.

Symptoms

Fever is an increase in temperature above normal values. The temperature normal for an individual may be slightly above or below the average normal temperature 98.6 F (37 C).

Fever, depending on the cause, may be accompanied by signs and symptoms such as:

• Sweating
• Trembling
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Loss of appetite
• Dehydration
• General weakness

Fever 103 F (39.4 C) to 106 F (41.1 C) may cause:

• Hallucinations
• Confusion
• Irritability
• Convulsions
• Dehydration

Conditions requiring medical attention

Fever in itself is not a cause for concern and a reason to seek medical attention. However, there are times when, if you have a fever, you need to see a doctor yourself or take your child to the doctor.

Temperature measurement

Several types of thermometers are suitable for taking your own and your baby’s temperature, including oral, rectal, and ear (tympanic) thermometers.

Although not the most accurate method, an oral thermometer can be used to measure armpit temperature (axillary temperature).

• Place the thermometer in the armpit and cross your arms over your chest.
• Wait four or five minutes. Axillary temperature is slightly lower than oral.
• The doctor who came on call must be informed of the actual readings of the thermometer and name the place where the temperature was taken.

A rectal thermometer is suitable for measuring temperature in young children:

• To do this, grease the bulb of the thermometer with petroleum jelly.
• Place the baby on the stomach.
• Carefully insert the bulb of the thermometer half a centimeter into the child’s rectum.
• Hold the thermometer and child still for three minutes.
• Never let go of the thermometer while it is in the child’s body. If the child wriggles, the thermometer may go deeper and cause damage.

Infants

Unlike adults, unexplained fever in children is a serious cause for concern. If your child’s temperature rises to 101 F (38.3 C) or more, contact your pediatrician. You should also call a doctor in the following cases:

• Fever in a child under 3 months old.
• Refusal of the child to eat and drink.
• Fever and unexplained irritability: the child cries a lot, for example when changing a diaper or at the slightest movement.
• Lethargy and lack of reaction in a child with fever. In infants and children under 2 years of age, these signs may be signs of meningitis, an infection and inflammation of the membranes and fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. If meningitis is suspected, the child should be seen by a doctor immediately.
• The body temperature of the newborn is below normal – below 97 F (36.1 C). In the youngest children, during illness, body temperature is difficult to regulate: it may fall rather than rise.

Children

If a child has a fever, but still reacts to others: makes eye contact, responds to facial expressions and voice, then there is probably nothing to worry about.

In the following cases, the child should be taken to the doctor:

• Lethargy or irritability, frequent vomiting, severe headaches or abdominal pain, or any other symptoms that cause severe discomfort.
• Fever after being in a hot car. Seek immediate medical attention if:
• Fever persists for more than one day (in children under 2 years of age) or more than three days (in children 2 years of age and older)

In special cases, for example, if the child has diseases associated with disorders of the immune system or any pre-existing diseases. Doctors also advise caution if a child has recently been prescribed a new drug.

Adults

Seek medical attention if:

• Temperature rises above 103 F (39.4 C)
• Persistence of fever for more than three days

In addition, seek immediate medical attention if any of the following signs or symptoms accompany a fever:

• Severe headache
• Severe swelling of the throat
• Unusual skin rash, especially if it progresses rapidly
• Unusual sensitivity to bright light
• Stiff neck and pain when bending head forward
• Confusion
• Prolonged vomiting
• Labored breathing or chest pain
• Extreme lethargy or excitability
• Abdominal pain or pain when urinating
• Other unexplained signs and symptoms

Complications

Fever may be accompanied by the following complications:

• Severe dehydration
• Hallucinations
• Fever-induced convulsions (febrile convulsions) in a small number of children aged 6 months to 5 years
• Febrile convulsions

Febrile seizures are usually accompanied by loss of consciousness and convulsions of the limbs, involving muscle groups on both sides of the body. Although febrile seizures are a cause of concern for parents, in most cases they do not have any long-term consequences.

If ​​a febrile seizure occurs:

• Place the child on its side or stomach on the floor or other flat surface
• Remove all sharp objects within reach of the child
• Rid the child of tight clothing
• Hold the child to avoid injury.

Do not put anything in the child’s mouth or try to stop seizures
In most cases, seizures go away on their own. After the seizures stop, it is necessary to show the child to the doctor as soon as possible to determine the cause of the fever.

If convulsions persist for more than 10 minutes, seek emergency medical attention.

Herpes (colds on the lips)

Herpes on the lips has several names: “cold” on the lips, fever on the lips, herpes of the lips, herpes labialis, labial or labial herpes.

“Cold” on the lips, mainly caused by herpes simplex virus type I (HSV-I) . 95% of people have this virus in their body. In rare cases, the cause of herpes lips is the herpes simplex virus type 2, (transmitted through oral sex).

The herpes simplex virus, which causes a “cold” on the lips, remains inside the human body for life. At the moment, no medicines and treatments have been developed that would completely destroy the herpes simplex virus in the human body.

Up to 10,000,000 Russians annually suffer from “colds” on the lips. Approximately every 5 Russians get herpes of the lips from 2 to 10 times a year. And only about 5% of the human race has immunity to HSV-I, the reasons for which are still unclear.

The virus enters the body in early childhood: at 3-4 years old, when the antibodies against the herpes virus transmitted to the baby by the mother are depleted. Most often, infection occurs if the child is kissed by carriers of the infection. For example, parents, brothers, sisters and other relatives. In addition to a kiss, the virus can enter the body along with the biological fluids of others, for example, with saliva.

Having come to visit us, it penetrates into the mucous membranes, reaches the nerve endings. Through them, with a current of fluid that feeds the nerves, it rises into the cranial cavity, where it “hides” in the nerve plexus, called, by the trigeminal ganglion and “sleeps” there until it is reactivated.

Reactivation of the virus is possible at the moment when immunity “decreases”. “Decrease” in immunity can occur under the influence of: colds, flu, menstruation, emotional distress and stress, strong ultraviolet radiation, excessive alcohol consumption, indigestion and fatigue.

Causes of recurrence of herpes on the lips:

– Stress or emotional disorder;

– Various somatic diseases, in particular colds, flu, diabetes, HIV;

– Poisoning or intoxication;

– Alcohol, caffeine and smoking;

– Excessive ultraviolet exposure;

– Hypothermia or overheating;

– Coming of menstruation;

– Overwork and exhaustion;

– Malnutrition/diet or indigestion;

– Other individual factors;

After “awakening” the virus is sent to the nerves (like a train on rails) from the trigeminal ganglion back to the skin. It is important to know that branches that innervate the lips, oral mucosa, gums, skin on the earlobe and part of the cheek depart from the trigeminal plexus. In accordance with the outgoing nerves, lesions on the skin will also be located. As it passes through the nerve, the virus causes inflammation of the nerve tissue, which causes pain along the course of the nerve fiber.

Stages of development of the “cold” on the lips

In its development, the disease goes through stage IV:

Stage I – tingling.

At this time, most people feel that they are getting sick. Before a “cold” appears, the skin at the corners of the mouth or the inside of the lips, or on the tongue, or even all over the face begins to itch.
In a place where a recurrence of herpes will soon develop, harbingers of the disease appear: pain, tingling, tingling, itching. The skin over the site of the future relapse turns red.

The development of the disease can be prevented if drugs based on acyclovir (Zovirax ointment) are used at this stage. If you suffer from severe itching, you can take an aspirin or paracetamol tablet.

Stage II – the stage of inflammation, begins with a small painful vesicle, which gradually increases in size. The bubble is tense and filled with a clear liquid, which later becomes cloudy.

Stage III – stage of ulceration. The bubble bursts, and a colorless liquid flows out of it, stuffed with billions of viral particles. In its place, an ulcer is formed.

At this point, the sick person is highly contagious, as they release a huge amount of viral particles into the environment. Because of the soreness and sores on the face, people are most annoyed by this stage.

IV stage eschar formation. A crust forms over the sores, if damaged, pain and bleeding can occur.

Herpes rashes are most often located on the red border of the lips, but can also be on the nose, on the cheeks, in the ears, on the forehead, in the oral cavity: on the gums, the inner surface of the lips and cheeks.

Complications of the “cold” on the lips

If personal hygiene rules are not followed, the virus can affect other parts of the body: if you rub your eyes with your hands after touching the blisters or sores, you can provoke ophthalmic herpes 9 0004 or herpes eye – severe eye damage, sometimes leading to decreased vision and even blindness. Herpetic eczema may develop – a virus infection of the skin of the fingers.

If you kiss someone with ulcerated lips, you can pass the infection to the child or loved ones.

Oral sex with a partner with an active “cold” on the lips can lead to “ genital herpes “. Those. during an outbreak of a “cold” on the lips, herpes can be mechanically transferred from the lips of an “active” sexual partner in oral sex to the genitals of the recipient of oral caresses.

This is how patient M. describes the severe course of herpetic infection on the lips: He is very worried about headaches and intoxication, as a rule, for no apparent reason, symptoms of severe poisoning appear. Tablets from the “head” help with difficulty, more or less saves an injection of analgin with diphenhydramine. Not a single doctor even wanted to talk about a headache and listen .”

In people with reduced immunity (immunosuppression, HIV infection), necrotic forms of the course with the formation of scars on the skin are possible. 4.” Colds are contagious! Always wash your hands with soap and water before and after touching cold sores, including after applying antiviral cream.

– Do not touch your eyes! Especially women during makeup;

– Do not use saliva to wet contact lenses.

– Despite itching and pain, do not touch rashes, kiss, especially with children, use someone else’s lipstick or borrow your own, smoke one cigarette with a friend (girlfriend).

– Do not attempt to remove blisters or crusts to avoid transmission of infection to other parts of the body or bacterial infection.

– Stop oral sex! Oral sex during a “cold” on the lips of an “active” partner can cause genital herpes in a partner who is passively participating in oral sex. In this case, herpes from the lips of the “active” partner can be transferred to the genitals of the partner receiving caresses.
– If you have a cold on your lips, use individual dishes or a towel, do not drink from other people’s glasses …

Newborn care. To avoid contracting herpes in the newborn, women who have cold sores on the lips should thoroughly wash their hands before touching their baby. If there are blisters or sores on the lips, a disposable surgical mask or gauze bandage should be used while caring for the child until the sores dry out. During a cold on the lips, do not kiss or sniff the child. If there is herpes on any other part of the body, then it must be carefully closed and in no case should it come into contact with the skin of the child.

REMEMBER:

– By the time you feel the tingling, the virus has already started, which means it’s time to start using an antiviral cream or other antiviral drugs prescribed by your doctor without delay;

– Use your medicine!

Medicines can help stop a relapse or speed up recovery.

Use aciclovir creams and ointments to help heal blisters and ulcers quickly, supplements containing either zinc or L-LYSINE. Remember that the use of corticosteroids (hydrocortisone ointment) reduces itching, but dramatically increases the area and severity of the lesions and the duration of the painful period.

– Apply antiviral ointments with cosmetic sticks.

To apply antiviral ointments (Acyclovir, Zovirax) to herpetic eruptions, use special cosmetic sticks, as shown in this picture.

Applying ointments to the lesion directly with the fingers can cause the virus to be transferred from the lips to the skin of the fingers.

– If you have frequent relapses, then make sure that you always have the medicine at hand. Like a passport or money, keep it with you at all times;

– Aciclovir creams and ointments must be used at least 4 times a day for 5 days.

– Valaciclovir may be prescribed for a one-day treatment of lip herpes by a physician.