A cold sore in your child's mouth can be very painful and embarrassing. Unfortunately, when your child gets a cold sore there is no easy, quick fix. The sore will need to run its course, which normally takes around one week. In the meantime, there are a few things your child can do for pain relief.
Cold Sore
A cold sore, also known as a fever blister, is a fluid-filled sore on the mouth, face or nose caused by herpes simplex virus type 1. According to KidsHealth, cold sores in the mouth are very common and children usually get infected during the preschool years.
Symptoms
Usually, your child will be able to feel a tingling on his lip and know that a cold sore is coming. It appears with small, painful red blisters, usually around and inside the mouth. KidsHealth also notes that the gums may become reddened and inflamed. After the blisters form, they will break and ooze, then become crusty and finally slough off without a scar. This sore usually last about one week. In some cases, the virus can lead to a fever or muscle aches. After a child is infected, the virus may be dormant without causing any symptoms until it becomes reactivated.
Treatment
Over-the-counter ointments, such as benzocaine or lidocaine can help ease discomfort for your child by numbing the area. Also, acetaminophen and ibuprofen may also help with the pain. Your child should also apply ice or warm compresses to the blister as often as possible. Cool foods and drinks may also help relieve discomfort. It is important to avoid pinching, picking or squeezing the blister because this may spread the blister to other parts of the body.
Medical Attention
Cold sores usually disappear without treatment. You should see your doctor if your child has a pre-existing health condition that has compromised her immune system, if the cold sores do not heal within one or two weeks, if your child has frequent recurrences of cold sores or if the symptoms are severe.
Prevention
Your child can prevent getting cold sores by avoiding kissing others with cold sore blisters, avoid sharing items such as utensils, lip balm, towels and other items, and washing hands thoroughly before and after touching someone with a cold sore. Avoiding triggers such as stress, cold or flu, lack of sleep or staying in the sun for long periods of time will help to prevent cold sores.
