What herpetic ulcers are
Herpes simplex is a common virus. The first infection, most often in young children, can cause a mouth illness called primary herpetic gingivostomatitis: fever, irritability, drooling, red swollen gums and many small blisters that burst into painful ulcers on the gums, tongue, lips and palate. Eating and drinking hurt, and children may refuse both.
After the first episode the virus stays dormant in the body. It can wake up later as a cold sore on the lip or, less often, a small cluster of ulcers on the gum or hard palate. Triggers include illness, sun, stress and tiredness.
Herpetic versus aphthous ulcers
Because both are painful mouth sores, they are often mixed up. The difference matters: one is contagious and the other is not. Our guide on aphthous mouth ulcers covers the non-infectious kind.
| Feature | Herpetic ulcers | Aphthous ulcers |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Herpes simplex virus | Not fully understood; not a germ |
| Starts as | Cluster of tiny blisters | A single round ulcer, no blisters |
| Where | Gums, palate, lips, tongue | Soft lining of cheeks, lips, under the tongue |
| Contagious | Yes, while blisters are present | No |
| Fever | Common in first infection | Rare |
| Usual healing | About 1 to 2 weeks | About 7 to 14 days for minor ulcers |
General comparison of herpetic and aphthous ulcers. Only an examination is certain.
Spread, care and what a doctor may add
The virus spreads by close contact and shared cups, spoons and towels while blisters are active. Avoid kissing and sharing utensils, wash hands after touching a sore, and keep a child with active sores away from babies. Our guide on mouth ulcers in newborns explains why young babies need particular care.
Care is about fluids, rest and comfort. Cool drinks and soft, bland food help; avoid spicy, sour or hot food. Paracetamol or ibuprofen as directed on the label can ease pain and fever; ask a pharmacist or doctor first for children or if you have stomach, kidney or liver problems. A doctor may prescribe an antiviral medicine if the illness is started early, severe or in someone with weak immunity.
Do not use antibiotics for it. They do not work against a virus.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor the same day if a child cannot drink, shows signs of dehydration such as very little urine, is very drowsy, or has a high fever. Go to a hospital emergency department if there is difficulty swallowing or breathing. Sores near the eye also need urgent attention.
Ulcers that have not healed within three weeks need examining even if they looked herpetic at first. See the mouth ulcers page and our overview of mouth infections.
Common questions
Is a herpetic ulcer the same as a cold sore?
They are caused by the same virus. A cold sore appears on the outside of the lip, while a herpetic ulcer is a sore inside the mouth. Both are contagious while blisters are present.
How long does a herpetic mouth ulcer last?
It usually heals by itself in one to two weeks. The first infection in a child can feel worse than later episodes. Anything lasting three weeks should be examined.
Can adults get herpetic ulcers in the mouth?
Yes. Adults can have a first infection or a recurrence, often triggered by illness, stress or sun. Recurrences are usually smaller than a child's first episode.
Can I treat herpetic ulcers with antibiotics?
No. Antibiotics act on bacteria, not viruses. A doctor may prescribe an antiviral medicine when it is suitable, but most cases need only fluids, rest and comfort measures.
About this page
This page is general information, not a diagnosis or a quotation. Prices are prevailing Lucknow market ranges. Your own treatment and cost are determined after an examination. For questions about your own case, call +91 83036 12717.