Herpes Simplex 1 is also known as oral herpes or referred to as a cold sore. Cold sores are a virus that never goes away. Outbreaks occur and will heal over time, but can reoccur at any time without notice.
Common Symptoms of Herpes Simplex 1
Prior to an outbreak of the sores around the mouth, the common symptoms are often mistaken as being the flu. A low-grade fever occurs first before any other symptoms will develop. This is typically followed by general body aches and muscle soreness. Next, as the herpes virus begins to infect the facial area, a general sense of fatigue or exhaustion occurs, regardless of how much you have been sleeping. Prior to the sores appearing around the mouth, pain and a burning sensation can be felt were the sores are going to open up. Once that happens then the sores begin to appear around the face.
It is possible for the sores to not only open around the mouth, but also inside of the mouth and even on the chin. The sores inside the mouth are more painful and take longer to heal. The sores on the face will develop scabs and heal in about a week’s time.
Things to Avoid While Infected with Herpes Simplex 1
You should avoid eating foods high in acids, such as fruits, vegetables, certain dairy products and certain beverages. These include cherries, grapefruit, oranges, pineapple, blueberries, strawberries, tomatoes, lentils, sour cream, butter, coffee, wine, and carbonated beverages. The acids in these foods will only irritate the sores and cause further pain. You should not share food utensils or food that you have eaten with someone else during the time the symptoms first appear. You should avoid close intimate contact with another person as you can transfer the virus. Once the sores are healed and gone then the risk of spreading herpes simplex 1 is no longer present.
Pillow cases, handkerchiefs, scarves, face cloths, towels and any other clothing should be washed in warm or hot water with detergent on a daily basis until the sores heal. You should also avoid touching the sores and wash your hands frequently with hot water and soap.