Fever blisters, caused by the herpes virus, commonly occur in or around the mouth, are highly contagious, and can be painful. Herpes simplex type 1 is the most common cause, while type 2 is responsible for genital herpes. Symptoms can be managed with antiviral medication and cold or hot compresses.
Fever blisters, commonly called cold sores, are caused by the herpes virus and occur in or around the mouth. They often feel raised and filled with a yellowish fluid, and while usually small, they can be quite painful. Some individuals develop a low-grade fever with active blisters.
The herpes virus that most often causes fever blisters is herpes simplex type 1, which is quite common. In the United States, most people become infected with this virus before they reach their 20s.
When a person is initially infected, they may not develop fever blisters immediately, and some people never get them. The herpes virus settles in the nervous tissues of the face and, when it reactivates, blisters may appear. They often recur in the same place, but usually don’t cause serious health problems.
Another form of the herpes virus, herpes simplex type 2, is more commonly responsible for genital herpes. This virus also inflicts babies born to mothers infected with herpes at the time of birth. This type can also cause fever blisters, however, if it infects the face.
Herpes viruses are highly contagious and any direct or indirect contact with a blister can cause an infection. Therefore, kissing and sharing items such as dishes, towels, and personal care items with someone who has an outbreak can lead to infection. Sometimes, fever blisters can be caused by oral-genital contact with a person infected with herpes simplex 2. Likewise, genital herpes can be contracted through the same kind of contact with a person who has active blisters.
The time from the initial viral infection to the eruption of the blisters is usually about a week or two, although it can take up to three weeks for the first flare-up to become apparent. Usually, the blisters last from one week to ten days. After the initial infection, the herpes virus can lie dormant within nerve cells, only occasionally causing an outbreak.
After the initial rash, new flare-ups tend to be mild. Many people develop symptoms before flare-ups, including burning sensations, localized tenderness, itching, or tingling. These signs can occur up to two days before an outbreak.
Fever blisters usually go away on their own without treatment, although there are antiviral medications that can help reduce pain and shorten the duration of symptoms. Some individuals also find pain relief by applying cold or hot compresses to the area.
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