What Are the Symptoms of Oral Herpes?

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), more than 80 percent of Americans are carriers of the virus that causes oral herpes, known as HSV1 (herpes simplex virus I). HSV2 can also cause oral herpes, otherwise known as cold sores, however HSV1 is the most common cuprit in this annoying condition. There are other types of lip sores, but oral herpes causes distinct symptoms exclusive to HSV.

Tingling

When oral herpes begins to activate a cold sore the first symptom is an itchy or tingly feeling in the nerve endings at the site where the sore will appear.

Blisters

The second oral herpes symptom is usually a red, painful bump topped by small blisters.

Weeping

The symptom of oral herpes which signals the most contagious phase of a cold sore is weeping. During this stage of oral herpes the blisters burst and fluid seeps out.

Scabbing

Symptoms of the ending stages of oral herpes are scabbing and healing. The blisters scab over continuously until only new skin is left behind.

Prevention/Solution

Oral herpes is passed through saliva either by kissing, sharing drinks or utensils and sometimes by sharing towels or makeup. Avoid these actions if there is a cold sore present.

Warning

Herpes can be transmitted through oral-genital contact. Avoid oral relations if either partner has an active oral or genital lesion.

Resources

• NIH Cold Sore Fact Sheet

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