Symptoms of oral herpes in women

Oral herpes

Oral herpes is medically called the herpes labialis. Apartfrom herpes labialis, there are several other types of herpes, such as genital herpeswhich affects the sexual organs, herpes whitlow which is the finger herpes,herpes keratitis which is the eye herpes, and the brain and central nervoussystem herpes, which is called herpes simplex encephalitis.

The oral herpes is a viral disease caused by herpessimplex virus, and there are two types of this virus: herpes simplex virus 1 andherpes simplex virus 2. In the majority of the cases, the oral simplex is caused byherpes simplex virus 1, while herpes simplex virus 2 is usually the main causefor the occurrence of genital herpes. However, there are cases, although veryfew, when herpes simplex virus type 1 can cause the genital herpes, while the type 2 can cause the oral herpes. The oral herpes is popularly known as fever blistersor cold sores.

Symptoms of oral herpes in women

There are certain symptoms of this infection evenbefore the blisters appear on the skin. In this stage, the virus is already inthe mucous membrane and skin. These early symptoms are slight burning sensationand itching of the infected area. After that, the cold sores or fever blistersemerge on the surface. It can be very painful and itching at the same time. Thecold sores gradually become crusty and dry. When all this passes, the virus progresses to the spineand to the dorsal root ganglion and stays there inactive. In the stressful periodin the future it may become active again.

Prevention of oral herpes

It is very important to avoid the physical contact withthe person that is infected or has open cold sores. Therefore, kissing,touching and hugging should be avoided and the cold sores must be regularlycleaned. Furthermore, the person must frequently wash the hands. Moreover, itis highly recommended to use some kind of protection during sexual activity,such as condoms, in order to prevent possible infection and genital herpes.

Treatment of oral herpes

Since this infection is caused by a virus, thedoctors do not prescribe antibiotics. In most cases, they prescribe antiviralmedicines, such as acyclovir and Valacyclovir. Moreover, ibuprofen may help alot, also. These medicines are very effective in reducing the symptoms of feverblisters, such as pain and itching. Many herbalists recommend certain herbs, while theinfected person can apply ice packs and wet tea bags on the cold sores.