Oral herpes presents as fever blisters and cold sores.
Some people with oral herpes have no symptoms at all.
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Oral Herpes Causes
Theherpes simplex virus has two types: HSV-1 and HSV-2.
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Incubation Period
Theincubation periodis the time between the first infection and when symptoms show up.
The incubation period for HSV-1 is two to 12 days following exposure.
When to Go to the Hospital
Severe complications from HSV-1 are very rare.
Symptoms may include headache, memory problems, fever, or personality changes.
Medical Treatment for Oral Herpes
Oral herpes symptoms may resolve without treatment within one to two weeks.
If needed, your healthcare provider will prescribe certain antiviral medications to treat your condition.
These medications help with any pain you may be experiencing as well as alleviate symptoms more quickly.
Tests and Diagnosis
Your healthcare provider candiagnose oral herpesby simply observing your mouth area.
Tests may include a viral culture, a viral DNA test, or aTzancktest.
Outlook
Currently, there is no cure for herpes.
Oral herpes often presents as cold sores, but some people experience no symptoms at all.
A Word From Verywell
Oral herpes is incredibly common.
If you happen to contract HSV-1, know you are not alone and there is treatment available.
Herpes is nothing to be ashamed of but it must be managed accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, HSV-1 is orally contagious.
It is spread through skin-to-skin contact.
Yes, oral herpes is permanent.
Once you are infected, the virus remains with you forever and there is currently no cure.
However proper management and treatment will help make living with HSV-1 much easier.
World Health Organization.Herpes simplex virus.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Genital herpes - CDC fact sheet.
Cedars Sinai.Herpes simplex virus (HSV) mouth infection.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Oral herpes.
Cedars Sinai.Herpes eye disease.
NHS.Herpetic whitlow (whitlow finger).
Reviewed November 6, 2020.
