What is Herpes Simplex Labialis?
by Ask a Healer
More on Antivirals:
Homeopathics for Herpes
Herpes simplex Labialis, most often caused by the type 1 strain of the herpes virus, affects the face and mouth, especially the lips and the nares (ps. nares is another name for nostrils). This form of herpes, also called oral herpes or a cold sore, is primarily spread by oral secretions (kissing someone with a fever blister) or by touching a herpes lesion with your hand and then touching the face or mouth. Oral herpes outbreaks are often preceded by fever or colds and flu but may also develop in the absence of fever or prior illness. Symptoms of herpes simplex labialis can include blisters in the mouth, on the tongue or on the chin in addition to have eruptions on the lips and around the nostrils, or nares.
Canker Sores are Different than Cold Sores
A canker sore in the mouth can have similarities to a herpes lesion but they are not the same thing. If you damage the inside of your mouth, you might develop a canker sore. They may also occur in those with compromised immune systems. However, the herpes lesion is caused specifically by the herpes virus whereas a canker sore is typically the result of damage (perhaps from crispy food that has rough edges, like chips, or biting the inside of the mouth. Those under stress appear to be more vulnerable to canker sores and some vitamin deficiencies may be a factor. Here is more information about what causes canker sores.
Treating oral herpes outbreaks:
Medical herpes simplex labialis treatments include acyclovir, famvir and valtrex. There are natural supplements that have antiviral properties as well but these cannot be sold as cold sore or herpes treatments according to a new ruling by the FDA/FTC. However, they may still be considered as supplemental support for those who want to try a natural approach toward helping the body's natural defense systems in cases of oral or genital herpes infections.
I include information on natural antivirals here at the wellness library, for those who wish to know more about nature's natural virus fighters. For more information about oral herpes and additional herpes simplex labialis treatments, here's a good online article:
Treatment of Common Cutaneous Herpes Simplex Virus Infections
Additional skin infections and natural remedies information:
What is ringworm? ===>>> What is Scabies? ===>>> What is Impetigo?
Health Care Disclaimer: The medical profession states that there is no cure for the herpes virus once it has entered the body. Different strains of the virus may be responsible for cold sores and genital herpes. If you feel you may have been exposed to someone with genital herpes, get an examination and some testing if cold sores develop after exposure. Approved antivirals are listed above
