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You may recognize fever blisters by their more common name–cold sores. They appear on or around your mouth and then turn crusty, and you can often foretell a fever blister by the tingling or burning sensation it causes before it appears. The cause of fever blisters is the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 or HSV-2), and they are very contagious. Though each outbreak tends to disappear in a month or less without needing treatment, the HSV virus can stay with you for years.

Many people don’t know they have the herpes simplex virus because they never experience symptoms or they only develop fever blisters when something triggers an outbreak. Our dentist and team to help you determine your triggers for fever blisters and what can be done to manage them.

Fever Blister Triggers
– Weakened immune system
– Fever or viral infection
– Hormone changes, including menstruation
– Stress
– Sunlight or wind exposure
– Some medications

If you experience frequent episodes of fever blisters, Dr. Don Schiess may perform one or more of the following services:

– A visual exam to identify herpes
– Reviewing your medical history to better understand your condition
– Using prescription medication to reduce outbreaks

A common prescription medication for fever blisters is the antiviral drug acyclovir (Zovirax), which can be administered as a cream or ointment to reduce how long fever blisters last. For professional and customized insight regarding how to treat fever blisters in Medford, Oregon, call Open Door Family Dentistry at 541-773-4073 today to schedule an appointment with the dentist.