Herpes Simplex of the Mouth

Classification

Herpes simplex infections of the mouth are generally classified into two categories- primary or recurrent. This is only academic and does not alter the treatment.

The first (primary) infection from the herpes virus is usually acquired sometime in childhood. Many children do acquire the virus but only about 1/00 children develop full blown herpes. Once the herpes virus is acquired, it remains in the body for ever. The virus has a great affinity for nerves and resides there until something causes it to awaken. Some individuals only develop one herpes infection in their lifetime, but for some unlucky individuals, the virus keeps on coming back. When the virus comes back, it has essentially been reactivated from a dormant state in the nerves. This cycle of reactivation and dormancy does occur in many individuals and is not only bothersome but also creates havoc in interpersonal relationships and social life (Herpes infections carry a certain stigma and most people do not brag about it).

While the exact mechanism of reactivation is not understood, there are some known factors which can trigger the virus. These factors include emotional stress (depression, anxiety), physical problems (trauma), excessive exposure to the sun or extreme cold, bacterial infection of the mouth or lung, any major illness and a lot of bad luck.