If You Have Canker Sores Do You Have Herpes?

Some people would often ask that if you have canker sores do you have herpes? Herpes is more closely associated with cold sores, both of which are caused by herpes simplex virus, a form of herpes virus. Canker sore usually occurs in eight out of ten Americans without any particular cause; they usually disappear without any treatment. Recurrent canker sores, however, may indicate some form of allergic reaction. The following facts will help distinguish canker sores from cold sore which is closely associated with herpes.

Canker sores are non-contagious. Even if you kiss a person with canker sore, you are not going to get it. Cold sores associated with herpes are contagious and may be transmitted to others by direct contact such as when kissing. In order to avoid the spread of virus, be sure to have your sore properly diagnosed.

Canker sore typically manifest inside the mouth. It commonly appears inside the cheeks and lips, on the tongue or at the soft tissues of the mouth. Cold sores usually appear outside the mouth. You may find them around the lips, chin or nostrils. Less commonly, they appear on the face and sometimes on the hands. When cold sores find its ways inside the mouth, it usually appears at the hard palette or on the gums.

Canker sores are ulcerations in the mouth. They can get painful when it bursts to an open, shallow white or yellowish wound. Cold sores are fever blisters that appear outside of the mouth and when it finds its way inside the mouth, it does not target the soft tissues inside the mouth.

Canker sores have no known causes. They may be due to acute stress, trauma on the soft tissues in the mouth, allergies or by a certain reaction to bacteria. Cold sores are contagious, caused by the herpes simplex virus that is transmittable from one person to another.

There is no certain cure for canker sores. They usually disappear on their own in seven to ten days. The least that doctors can prescribe are pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. There are generic over the counter pain relievers that could help ease the pain of these sores. Ask your doctor or pharmacist what is right for you and for the proper administration of this medication.

Treatment for cold sores usually involves treating the herpes virus. Prescription drugs, external treatments such as ointments, over the counter cold sore meds and some other antiviral prescriptions are the most common treatment for the condition.