Question

I am experiencing blisters on my lips and some other symptoms which are similar to Herpes. It all started with a fever that happened 2 years ago. Since then I have been experiencing these blisters and other such symptoms on a regular basis. Want to know how should I get sure that I have herpes or not? Which test is required? And what is the cure/treatment that I can take for herpes?

Dr.Satish Kumar Gupta · Accepted Answer

It is herpes simplex labialis. It is recurrent, it means, it keeps on occuring agai and again. It is also known as cold sores.
What Is Recurrent Herpes Simplex Labialis?
Recurrent herpes simplex labialis, also known as oral herpes, is an infection of the mouth area caused by the herpes simplex virus. Itâs a common and contagious infection that spreads easily. The infection causes blisters and sores on the lips, mouth, tongue or gums. After an initial infection, the virus stays dormant inside the nerve cells of the face. Later on in life, the virus can reactivate and result in more sores. The herpes is recurrent when this happens. These are commonly known as cold sores or fever blisters. Recurrent herpes simplex labialis is usually not serious, but relapses are common. Many people choose to treat the recurrent episodes with over-the-counter creams. The symptoms will usually go away without treatment in a few weeks. A doctor may prescribe medications if relapses occur often.
Herpes simplex labialis is the result of a virus called herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). The initial infection usually occurs before age 20. It typically affects the lips and areas around the mouth.
You can get the virus from close personal contact with someone who has the virus. You can also get oral herpes from touching objects where the virus may be present. These include towels, utensils, razors for shaving, and other shared items.
After the first infection, the virus lays dormant inside the nerve cells of the face for the rest of a personâs life. This means that symptoms arenât always present. However, certain events can make the virus reawaken and lead to a recurrent herpes infection. Events that trigger a recurrent infection of oral herpes might include:
fever
menstruation
a high-stress event
fatigue
hormonal changes
upper respiratory infection
extreme temperature
a weakened immune system
recent dental work or surgery
Simplex Labialis
Treatment
You canât get rid of the virus itself. Once infected, HSV-1 will remain in your body forever, even if you donât have recurrent episodes. Symptoms of a recurrent episode usually go away within one to two weeks without any treatment. The blisters will usually scab and crust over before they disappear.
At-Home Care
Applying ice or a warm cloth to the face or taking a pain reliever like acetaminophen might help to reduce any pain. Some people choose to use over-the-counter skin creams. However, these creams usually only shorten an oral herpes relapse by one or two days.
Medication
You may take oral antiviral medicines such as acyclovir, famciclovir, or valacyclovir under medical supervision to fight the virus. These medicines work better if you take them when you experience the first signs of a mouth sore, such as tingling on the lips, and before the blisters appear. These medications donât cure herpes and may not stop you from spreading the virus to other people.
For cases of recurrent herpes simplex labialis that result in frequent mouth sores, your doctor may advise you to use the medication all the time.
Preventing the Spread of Herpes
The following tips may help prevent the infection from reactivating or spreading.
Wash any items that may have had contact with the infected sores, like towels, in boiling water after use.
Donât share food utensils or other personal items with people who have oral herpes.
Donât share cold sore creams with anyone.
Donât kiss or participate in oral sex with someone who has cold sores.
To keep the virus from spreading to other parts of the body, donât touch the blisters or sores. If you do, wash your hands with soap and water immediately.
Long-Term Outlook
Symptoms usually go away within one to two weeks. However, the cold sore episodes can frequently return. The rate and severity of the sores usually diminish as you get older.
Infections near the eye or in immune-compromised individuals can be serious. You should see your doctor in these cases.

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