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What are Mouth Sores?
If you have been bothered by a sore in your mouth that made it painful to eat and talk, you are not alone. Many otherwise healthy people suffer from recurrent mouth sores. Two of the most common recurrent oral lesions are fever blisters (also called cold sores) and canker sores (aphthous ulcers). When they occur in the mouth, it may be difficult to distinguish one from the other. Since the treatment and cause of these two sores are completely different, it is extremely important to know which is which.
What Are Fever Blisters (Cold Sores)?
Cold sores, also called fever blisters, are small fluid filled blisters that commonly develop on or around the lips. These painful blisters may also appear inside the mouth, particularly on the roof of the mouth, and can sometimes cause painful gums. Before a cold sore appears, individuals may notice tingling, burning, or discomfort. The small blisters typically rupture, crust over, and heal within approximately seven to 10 days.
What Causes Cold Sores?
Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1, although type 2 can occasionally affect the mouth. After the initial herpes simplex virus infection, the virus remains dormant and may later produce a recurrent infection. A cold sore outbreak can be triggered by stress, fever, illness, hormonal changes, sunlight, or a weakened immune system.
The first herpes infection may cause more noticeable common symptoms, including fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, or severe flu like symptoms. Although cold sores cannot always be avoided, identifying triggers, limiting sun exposure, and following medical guidance may help prevent cold sores or reduce their frequency. These lesions are caused by the herpes virus and can be contagious, even when symptoms are mild.
Can Fever Blisters Be Spread?
Yes, the time from blister rupture until the sore is completely healed is the time of greatest risk for the spread of infection. The virus can spread to your own eyes and genitalia, as well as to other people.
Prevention Tips For Fever Blisters
- Avoid mucous membrane contact when a lesion is present
- Do not squeeze, pinch, or pick at the blister
- Wash your hands carefully before touching your eyes or genital area, or another person
Despite all caution, it is important to remember that it is possible to transmit the herpes virus even when no blisters are present.
How We Treat Cold Sores
Treatment consists of coating the lesions with a protective barrier ointment containing an antiviral agent, for example, 5% acyclovir ointment. Presently, there is no cure, but there is much research activity underway in this field. Contact your doctor or dentist for the latest information.
What Are Canker Sores?
Canker sores (also called aphthous ulcers) are small, shallow ulcers occurring on the tongue, soft palate, or inside the lips and cheeks. They are quite painful, and usually last 5-10 days.
Causes Of Canker Sores
The best available evidence suggests that canker sores result from an altered local immune response associated with stress, trauma, or local irritants, such as eating acidic foods (i.e., tomatoes, citrus fruits and some nuts.)
Can Canker Sores Spread?
No, since they are not caused by bacteria or viral agents, they cannot be spread locally or to anyone else.
Treatment For Canker Sores
The treatment is directed toward relieving discomfort and guarding against infection. A topical corticosteroid preparation such as triamcinolone dental paste (Kenalog in Orabase 0.1%) is helpful. Unfortunately, no cure exists at present.
What About Other Sores?
For any mouth lesion that does not heal in two weeks, you should see your physician or dentist.
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The AOO care team also supports patients with related conditions such as chronic sore throat care and hoarseness care in Denver.
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