Herpes on the mouth is medically referred to as herpes labialis. The condition, commonly known as cold sores or fever blisters, is most often caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1. Early symptoms include itching and tingling sensations in the area. Within one to three days, a fluid-filled blister forms. Left untreated, oral herpes remains for one to two weeks. According to the American Social Health Association, 50 to 80 percent of adults become infected with herpes simplex type 1.
Medications
People who suffer from genital herpes often take oral medications to repress or reduce outbreaks. These medications may be prescribed to people who have frequent outbreaks of herpes on the mouth. Common medications include valacyclovir, or Valtrex. The American Social Health Association recommends that medications be taken during the prodrome stage, or before the actual cold sore develops, and then repeated 12 hours later. Topical antiviral medications are applied during the prodrome stage and also on the actual cold sore. Common topical medications available via prescription include acyclovir ointment and penciclovir cream. MedlinePlus reports these medications must be massaged onto the cold sore every 2 hours. Applying them may reduce recovery time by only a few hours to a day. Over-the-counter numbing agents such as lidocaine or benzocaine decrease pain and discomfort associated with the cold sore. The American Social Health Association reports these topical treatments may actually cause slower healing times.
Pain Remedies
The cold sores should be washed gently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus to other parts of the body. Ice chips placed over the cold sore cause temporary numbness, which soothes the area and reduces pain. Alternatively, a warm compress soaked in hot water may also decrease pain.
Prevention
Most people eventually carry the virus causing the cold sores. Infection commonly occurs during childhood by kissing a friend or relative, according to the American Social Health Association. No cure is available for herpes. Sharing of utensils, towels and close contact should be avoided during an outbreak. Certain factors may trigger outbreaks; these include stress, sunburn and flu and cold viruses.
