Oral herpes (herpes simplex, cold sores)

What is oral herpes?

Oral herpes (herpes labialis) is the most common viral skin infection. It is a recurrent infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which is normally latently present in the ganglia nerve. However, during events such as illness, psychophysical stress or intense sun exposure, HSV can migrate to the lips and cause the destruction of many epidermis cells, resulting in burning, swelling, itching and the formation of blisters. Other areas of the body, such as the cheeks, nose, fingers, glutes and sacrum, can also be affected by the herpes simplex virus. The infection itself only lasts for a few hours, as the virus quickly retreats to the ganglia nerve where it cannot be fought off by the immune system.

Why does oral herpes come back?

After one infection, the herpes simplex virus remains within the ganglia nerve and, following a stressful event, may return to the skin or mucous membranes. Stressors that can cause the herpes virus to return include: overeating, overwork, strenuous travel, menstruation, and intense exposure to ultraviolet rays.

Are recurrences of oral herpes the result of immunosuppression?

No, recurrences of oral herpes are not linked to immunosuppression and the immune system remains fully functional. In fact, oral herpes most often affects young people in good health. This means that, upon an outbreak of oral herpes, there is no need for any further investigation into the state of immune system function, nor is there any need to boost the immune system.

What does oral herpes look like?

Oral herpes causes itching and swelling followed by the formation of clusters of blisters on the lips or face. In the days after, the blisters will rupture, causing a sticky liquid to leak out, and will then scab over. After seven to ten days, the scabs fall off and the skin or the lips will return to normal. In addition to these symptoms, the lymph nodes may swell and a slight fever may develop. When the herpes simplex virus infects the genitals, it usually causes clusters of blisters to form on the mucous membranes which often means it is confused for other genital diseases. In women, herpes may also occur inside the vagina, making the infection invisible.

What are the causes of oral herpes?

Oral herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV viruses are divided into two groups: HSV-1 is responsible for herpes of the lips, while HSV-2 is responsible for herpes in the genital area.

Diagnosing oral herpes

The observation of symptoms is usually sufficient to diagnose oral herpes. In case of doubt, any cells infected by the virus can be looked for during a cytological examination; however searching for any present herpes antibodies is of little value.

Treatment for oral herpes

There are specific drugs (acyclovir and derivatives) that act against the herpes simplex virus. These pharmaceuticals can be administered intravenously, orally, or topically, however they only act during the replication stage of the virus which, in a healthy individual, only lasts for one or two hours. For this reason, there is limited value in applying antiviral creams because, even if the patient is timely in starting treatment, the virus is likely to no longer be in the reduplication phase and will have already returned to the ganglia nerve. At this point, any topical antiviral medications actually delay healing because they will macerate already inflamed tissue and will increase bacterial growth.

Oral herpes: DermaClub recommends…

In cases of oral herpes, apply Astringent Gel as soon as possible. While it does not contain antiviral properties, Astringent Gel will stop uncomfortable itching whilst drying out the blisters, preventing infection and facilitating faster healing without scarring. Apply Astringent Gel three or four times a day daily until the blisters have turned into scabs. At this point, PEG Ointment can be applied two to three times a day to facilitate scab detachment.

FAQs on oral herpes

Can oral herpes be caused by sun exposure?

Oral herpes can occur after intense sun exposure. To help prevent herpes and to protect the lips, dab Sun Clay to the lips before going outside.

Is herpes contagious?

Yes, oral herpes is contagious. This is because viral particles escape from the blisters and can infect other individuals, so it is recommended to avoid contact with someone who has oral herpes for at least as long as blisters are present.

Is herpes dangerous?

Herpes is not usually dangerous. However, recurrent vaginal herpes in women can contribute to cervical neoplasia. In addition, if the herpes simplex virus is present during childbirth, the infection can be passed on to the newborn which can cause serious complications for the infant.

Conclusion

Oral herpes is very common and prone to recurrences. Natural treatments can relieve discomfort and facilitate healing without scarring the skin.