Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a contagious virus that can cause recurrent skin infections in people affected by this condition. There are two major forms of HSV: type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2). The major distinction between these two types is the region of the body that develops symptoms. HSV-1 leads to symptoms around the mouth, lips or nose, while HSV-2 causes symptoms to develop around the genitals or anus. If you develop symptoms of HSV-1, which is also referred to as herpes labialis, speak with your doctor for further care and treatment.
Cold Sore or Fever Blister
The most common symptom associated with an HSV-1 infection is the development of a cold sore or fever blister. This skin lesion typically occurs around the mouth and may appear near the lips, nose or chin. Some people with HSV-1 may also develop cold sores within the mouth---specifically along the gum line or tongue. Symptoms of a cold sore frequently begin with a tingling or burning sensation of the skin. After a couple of days, patients develop a fluid-filled blister where the skin tingling or burning occurred. The blister eventually bursts, causing a painful skin ulceration to develop. Once this skin lesion has dried out, a yellowish crusting of the skin may develop over the lesion. As the cold sore heals, this crusty skin patch begins to flake off until it disappears completely. It may take 3 to 14 days for a cold sore to develop, blister and heal, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports. Depending on the frequency of your cold sore outbreaks, your doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication to control these symptoms.
Bad Breath
If you have HSV-1, you may experience an increase in the production of saliva within your mouth, or you may develop bad breath. Increased saliva production is an immune response utilized by your body to help clear infections out of your mouth. If cold sores form within your mouth, the fluid-filled skin lesions may cause you to develop foul breath. Frequently brushing your teeth or using over-the-counter mouth wash may help alleviate these symptoms.
Flu-Like Symptoms
Although it happens rarely, some people with HSV-1 may develop flu-like symptoms as a result of this infection. Such symptoms may include muscle pain, chills or mild fever. Speak with your doctor if you develop flu-like symptoms, as such symptoms may indicate that you have a different type of infection.
