Stomatitis is a viral infection caused by a Herpes virus hominis, also known as herpes simplex virus -- HSV. It is mainly seen in young children, and it causes ulcers and inflammation in your child's mouth. Herpetic stomatitis is not related to canker sores, which is caused by a different virus. If you suspect your child has stomatitis or if your child has a high fever, contact your pediatrician.
Symptoms
Stomatitis causes blisters inside the mouth on the tongue, cheeks, palate and gums. Ulcers develop once the blisters pop. Other symptoms include pain in the mouth, swollen gums, decrease food intake, drooling, difficulty swallowing and irritability. High fever is also one of the symptoms of stomatitis. The fever usually occurs 1 to 2 days after the blisters and ulcers appear and can be as high as 104 degree Fahrenheit.
Seizures
Children aged 6 months to 5 years can experience seizures, called febrile convulsions, in response to high fever, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. A child having a seizure can appear peculiar for a few moments followed by stiffening of the body, twitching and rolling of the eyes. Your child can be unresponsive, and the entire convulsion can last from seconds to up to 15 minutes. Although seizures can seem frightening, they are usually harmless and do not cause brain damage, nervous system problems or death; however, report any seizures to your pediatrician immediately.
Treatment
Stomatitis can be treated with antiviral medications. Oral topical anesthetic can also be used to help ease the pain in the mouth; however, these anesthetics need to be used with care because they cause numbness and can interfere with swallowing and cause choking, as well as cause your child to burn her mouth if drinking hot liquids. Your child should be put on a liquid diet of cool-to-cold nonacidic liquids, according to the Medline Plus.
Prevention
Herpes simplex virus is a common among people and approximately 90 percent of the population carries the virus. Due to this, it may be difficult to prevent your child from getting the virus during their childhood. Keep your child away from people with active cold sores, and do not share utensils, glasses or foods with people who may be infected.
References
- MedlinePlus: Herpetic Stomatitis
- "Your Baby's First Year"; The American Academy of Pediatrics; 2005
