Fever blisters: causes and symptoms

Fever blisters are red, fluid-filled blisters that form near the mouth or on other areas of the face. In rare cases, they may appear on the fingers, nose or in the mouth. They are generally grouped in plates. Fever blisters can last two weeks or more. What causes fever blisters?


Qu’est-ce qui cause les boutons de fièvre ?

Cold sores are caused by the fever blister virus.herpes simplex. There are two types of herpes simplex virus. Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) usually causes labial herpes. And herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) usually causes genital herpes.

The wounds are similar in appearance for both forms of the virus. It is also possible that HSV-1 causes genital lesions and HSV-2 causes oral lesions.

Visible cold sores are contagious. But they can still spread even if they are not visible. You can get the herpes simplex virus by coming into contact with infected people. This can happen through kissing, sharing cosmetics or even food. Oral sex can spread cold sores and genital herpes.


Réinfection

Once you have contractedthe herpes simplex virus, it cannot be cured, but it can be treated in a way that prevents reinfection. Once the wounds have healed, the virus remains dormant in your body. This means that new lesions can appear at any time when the virus reactivates.

Some people with the virus report more frequent outbreaks when their immune system is weak, such as during illness or stress.


Symptômes du boutons de fièvre

fever blisters symptoms

You may notice a tingling sensation or burning on your lips or face several days before a cold sore appears. This is the best time to start treatment.

Once the wound forms, you will see a raised red blister filled with fluid. It will usually be painful and tender to the touch.

Le bouton de fièvre peut rester visible pendant 2 semaines et sera contagieux jusqu’à ce qu’il se croute.  Vous pouvez également rencontrer un ou plusieurs des symptômes suivants lors d’une épidémie :

  • Fever

  • Muscle pain

  • Swollen lymph nodes.

If you develop eye symptoms during a cold sore outbreak, call your doctor immediately. Infections caused by herpes simplex virus can lead to permanent vision loss when not treated promptly.


Les complications associées à l’apparition du bouton de fièvre

The initial herpes simplex infection can cause more severe symptoms and complications. This is because your body has not yet built up a defense system against the virus. Complications are rare, but can occur, especially inyoung children. Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms:

  • High or persistent fever

  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing

  • Red, irritated eyes with or without discharge

Les complications sont plus susceptibles de survenir chez les personnes atteintes d’eczéma ou d’une affection qui affaiblit leur système immunitaire, telle que le cancer ou le sida. If you have any of these conditions, contact your doctor if you think you have contracted herpes simplex virus.


Le traitement des boutons de fièvre

There is no cure forspecial cold sores, but some people with herpes simplex virus rarely have outbreaks. If cold sores do develop, there are several ways to treat them.


Pommades et crèmes

When fever blisters become bothersome, you can control the pain and promote healing with antiviral ointments, such as penciclovir (Denavir). Ointments tend to be more effective if applied at the first sign of a wound. They should be applied 4 to 5 times a day for at least a week.

Docosanol (Abreva) is another treatment option. It is an over-the-counter cream that can reduce an outbreak from a few hours to a day. The cream should be applied several times a day.


Médicaments

Cold sores can also be treated with oral antiviral medications, such as acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (Valtrex) and famciclovir (Famvir). These medications are available by prescription only.

Your doctor may ask you to take regular antiviral medications if you have complications with cold sores or if your outbreaks are frequent.


Bouton de fièvre : quels remèdes naturels ?

Symptoms can be alleviated by applying ice or washcloths soaked in cold water to the sores.Alternative treatments for fever blisters include the use of a lip balm containing lemon extract.

Regular supplementation with lysine is associated with less frequent outbreaks in some people.

L’Aloe Verathe cooling gel found in the leaves of the aloe plant, can providerelief from cold sores.  

  • Appliquez du gel à l’aloe vera ou du baume à lèvres à l’aloe vera sur un bouton de fièvre

  • Repeat at least 3 times a day.

Vaseline will not necessarily cure a fever blister, but it may relieve the discomfort. The jelly helps prevent cracks. It also serves as a protective barrier against external irritants.

Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help dry out and heal fever spots. But it can sting on application. One study found that witch hazel has antiviral properties that can inhibit the spread of cold sores. Still, the verdict remains as to whether cold sores heal faster or remain moist or dry.


Sources:

Cold and canker sores. 

uhs.umich.edu/coldcankersores

Boutons de fièvre. (2017). 

nhs.uk/conditions/cold-sores/

Marie Dupont 15 July, 2019
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