Cold sores are caused by both the herpes simplex 1 and herpes simplex 2 viruses. Most people are exposed to the viruses during childhood by coming into contact with an infected individual or contaminated items. Herpetic sores have very distinct characteristics and symptoms.
Primary Infection
During the initial infection with the herpes virus, a child will experience mild fever, malaise, loss of appetite, pain in the gums and palate. Afterward the child will develop cold sores in or around her lips; these blisters are filled with clear fluid. The sores can be single or appear in clusters.
Recurrence
After the initial illness your child may periodically experience cold sores. There will be none of the general symptoms, but the fluid-filled can reappear. These outbreaks can be caused by stress, sun exposure, fever and many other factors.
Sores
Cold sores are most often found in or around the lips. The appearance of the sores is preceded by a tingling or itching feeling on the area of the lips, skin or gum where the cold sore will appear. The sores appear as fluid-filled blisters and may develop into reddish-gray colored ulcers. After the second or third day, the sores develop a yellow crust. The fluid-filled sores take 7 to 14 days to heal.
Treatment
Cold sores are treated by antiviral medication. These treatments can be administered topically or through oral medication. Acyclovir and Valaciclovir are two drugs commonly used to treat herpes infections and outbreaks.
Complications
If a herpes infection is left untreated, it can cause serious complications in children. Herpes can cause viral encephalitis, and infection of the eyes which can lead to blindness. In individuals who have weak immune systems, herpes can spread to other areas of the face and the internal organs.
References
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 16th Edition"; Lawrence Madoff, et al.; 2005
- DentalResource.org: Oral Herpes and Cold Sores
- Baby Center: Cold Sores
- "Control of Communicable Diseases Manual, 18th Edition"; David L. Heymann; 2004
