What causes herpes sores on the lips?
Sep 13, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
The most common clinical cause of mouth sores is herpes simplex. Herpes simplex is caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which is classified into two types: herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Mouth sores are usually caused by HSV-1 infection and belong to herpetic gingivostomatitis.
Cold sores are clusters of small blisters around the mouth caused by infection with a virus known as the herpes simplex virus. So, what causes cold sores on the lips?
What Causes Cold Sores on the Lips?
Clinically, the most common cause of oral cold sores is herpes simplex. Herpes simplex is caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which is divided into two types: herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Cold sores around the mouth are usually caused by HSV-1 infection. This condition is classified as herpetic gingivostomatitis, which is the most common form of primary mild herpes simplex in clinical practice.
Since the human body cannot develop permanent immunity against the herpes simplex virus, whenever immunity decreases—such as during fever, exposure to cold, sunburn, menstruation, pregnancy, gastrointestinal disturbances, excessive fatigue, emotional stress, or environmental changes—the dormant virus in the body may reactivate and cause disease. Therefore, herpes simplex tends to recur, leading to classification into primary and recurrent forms. Herpes simplex is a viral infection with self-limiting characteristics, typically lasting about two weeks.
The characteristic symptoms include painful small blisters and erosions on the lips, buccal mucosa, and palate. Recurrent small blisters may also appear on the vermilion border of the lip or perioral area. Humans are the only natural host for the herpes simplex virus, which can enter the body through the respiratory tract, oral cavity, eyes, genital mucosa, and broken skin. We hope this information helps you. Wishing you good health and happiness!
