Herpetic stomatitis is a problem that is often encountered in modern medical practice. The causative agent of this disease is the herpes virus, which, in fact, is evidenced by its name. According to statistics, most often this form of the disease is diagnosed among children. Therefore, many are interested in questions about what are the causes and symptoms of this ailment.
Herpetic stomatitis: main causes
As you know, stomatitis in this case is an infectious disease, accompanied by damage to the oral mucosa . The herpes virus is transmitted along with saliva, which is why the most common way of infection is through the sharing of dishes, towels, toys and other items. It is worth noting that this infection is extremely common - statistics confirm that most of the world's population is affected by this virus.
On the other hand, the penetration of viral particles into the body does not mean that a person will get sick. The state of the immune system is of great importance here. That is why herpetic stomatitis is most often found in children whose immunity is still being formed. In addition, other acute or chronic diseases that weaken the body’s defense, as well as vitamin deficiencies, malnutrition, hypothermia, stress, hormonal disruptions, are also considered risk factors.
Herpetic stomatitis: photos and symptoms
Most often, stomatitis begins with the appearance of the usual signs of intoxication - the body temperature rises, nearby lymph nodes increase, a person complains of weakness and fatigue. Soft tissues of the oral cavity swell and acquire a reddish tint. Subsequently, the mucous membrane is covered with a characteristic vesicular rash. When the herpetic vesicles open, wounds and sores form in their place.
Herpetic stomatitis is accompanied by pain and itching. It is difficult for a sick person to talk, swallow, eat and drink. In some cases, sores spread to the skin of the lips, often affect the mucous membrane of the larynx.
If untreated, a chronic form of the disease may develop. Such stomatitis is accompanied by damage to the lining of the tongue, cheeks and lips - they do not form small ulcers, but rather large areas of erosion.
Herpetic stomatitis and methods for their treatment
Of course, first of all, you should consult a doctor. Only a specialist can diagnose acute herpetic stomatitis. Treatment for this disease includes both general and local therapy.
To begin with, the patient is prescribed special gels or solutions for treating the oral mucosa. For this purpose, the agent "Stomatidin", "Iodicerin" and other drugs that have antiseptic properties and, in addition, reduce pain are used. The appearance of open sores sometimes promotes the activation of a bacterial infection - in this case, an additional antibiotic intake is required. In addition, doctors prescribe ointments with an antiviral effect - most often these are preparations containing interferon.
It is worth noting that the patient should be isolated, since the herpes virus is extremely contagious - he must have his own dishes, hygiene items, towels. It is important to monitor the patient's diet - the food should be liquid, not hot, but not cold, not contain salt and hot spices that irritate the mucous membrane and only aggravate well-being. After each meal, it is recommended to rinse your mouth with boiled water or a decoction of chamomile.