Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Fever Blisters
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Fever blisters are small sores in the mouth or the area around it. They usually develop on the gums, roof of the mouth, outside of the lips, or the nostrils.
What is going on in the body?
Fever blisters are caused by the two types of herpes simplex virus. Most fever blisters are caused by herpes simplex virus 1, or HSV 1, which causes oral herpes. The virus that causes genital herpes, HSV 2, may also cause fever blisters.
The two stages of oral herpes are primary infection and recurrence of infection. At some time during childhood, most people come down with the primary infection. The individual may or may not have symptoms. This primary infection takes about 2 weeks to clear up. After that, the virus remains in the body but is inactive.
After this primary infection, there can be a recurrence at any time. Many outbreaks occur without any obvious reason. However, the following factors may trigger a recurrence:
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
Fever blisters are caused by a herpes virus. People in the following categories may be more at risk for oral herpes:
Symptoms & Signs
What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?
Someone with an active oral herpes infection may have the following symptoms:
Diagnosis & Tests
How is the condition diagnosed?
Herpes is generally diagnosed with a medical history and physical exam. There are laboratory tests for this virus, but they are seldom needed.
Prevention & Expectations
What can be done to prevent the condition?
The virus that causes fever blisters can be passed from person to person. Someone with oral herpes should not share lipstick, utensils, or drinks with others. Touching and kissing can also spread the virus.
What are the long-term effects of the condition?
Fever blisters cause no serious long-term effects. The virus will stay in the person's body indefinitely.
What are the risks to others?
The herpes virus can be spread from person to person much like a cold or flu. Sores also can be spread to other parts of the body such as fingers or eyes. Sometimes sores can also spread to the genitals.
Treatment & Monitoring
What are the treatments for the condition?
In most cases, fever blisters are self-limiting. They will usually crust over and go away in about 2 weeks. If they last longer, the healthcare professional should be consulted. Treatment for oral herpes includes the following:
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Antiviral medications may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and allergic reactions. Creams and ointments may cause an allergic reaction in some individuals.
What happens after treatment for the disease?
The sores usually clear up and go away in about 2 weeks. If they last longer than this or if they come back often, the healthcare provider should be consulted.
How is the condition monitored?
Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.
Attribution
Author:James Broomfield, MD
Date Written:
Editor:Ballenberg, Sally, BS
Edit Date:06/30/01
Reviewer:Barbara Mallari, RN, BSN, PHN
Date Reviewed:06/12/01