Understanding Oral Herpes: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus. There are two main strains of the herpes simplex virus, and the first strain is the one most commonly associated with herpes outbreaks on the mouth. The herpes simplex virus remains in the body for the duration of the host's life and can cause other diseases, including brain encephalitis.

Initial symptoms

• Before a herpes sore occurs, there may be pain, itching and burning at the site of infection.

Sores

• Herpes can cause sores that are most painful when the disease is first contracted. These sores can occur on the roof of the mouth, the cheeks, the lips, the gums or the front of the tongue.

Exterior sores

• These sores may also be found on the neck and chin.

Lymph nodes

• The lymph nodes that are found in the neck may become painfully swollen as well.

Throat

• People in their 20s may also develop a sore throat with rather shallow ulcerations and a gray coating on their tonsils.