Herpes stomatitis is a mouth infection caused by the herpes virus (the same
virus that causes cold sores).
It is not a sexually transmitted disease.
Who can get stomatitis?
It is most common in children 1-2 years old who have not had the virus before.
What are the symptoms of stomatitis?
There are usually many small, sore, open blisters inside the mouth and on
the gums and tongue.
The lips, mouth, gums, and tongue often swell.
It may be hard for your child to eat because of mouth pain.
Blisters can make it difficult to swallow and cause drooling.
Your child may have a high fever, sore throat, and feel tired.
Is stomatitis contagious?
Yes. It is contagious.
It can be spread by close contact with cold sores. For example, children
should not kiss a parent who has a cold sore.
How is stomatitis treated?
Stomatitis usually goes away without treatment.
The doctor may give you medication to put on the sores.
Your child also may need medication to treat pain and fever. Use acetaminophen
(such as Tylenol, Tempra, or Panadol).
Do not use aspirin.
Wash your hands and your child's hands before eating because of the open
sores.
Give your child plenty of cool liquids to help ease mouth pain. Clear liquids,
milk, and shakes are soothing. Ice chips and Pedialyte also can be used. Use
a straw if your child has blisters on his lips or tongue.
Don't give citrus juices (such as orange juice and lemonade) and carbonated
drinks (soda). These will probably make the mouth hurt more.
Soft foods will be easiest for your child to eat. Yogurt, pudding, mashed
potatoes, applesauce, and baby food are some. Avoid spicy, hard, and salty
foods.
Rinse your child's mouth with warm water after he eats.
The doctor may recommend rinsing or gargling with salt water.
In some cases, children may need medicine to fight the virus. Acyclovir
is commonly used.
How long does stomatitis last?
Blisters usually heal in 1-2 weeks.
How can stomatitis be prevented?
Wash hands often.
Do not share drinks, food, or eating utensils.
Wash any items that come into contact with your child's mouth.
When should I call the doctor? Call the doctor if…
your child can't drink or swallow.
your child has a high temperature.
your child is fussy and won't settle down.
symptoms are not better after 3 days.
you have questions or concerns.
What is an emergency? Seek immediate care if…
your child has a high fever.
your child is dehydrated. Signs include dry lips, no tears when crying,
sinking soft spot on an infant's head, no urination in 8 hours, or very dark
urine.
your child is very weak, tired, or hard to wake up.
Quick Answers
Herpes stomatitis is a mouth infection caused by the herpes virus.
It is most common in children 1-2 years old.
Symptoms include many small, sore, open blisters inside the mouth and on
the gums and tongue.
Stomatitis is contagious.
Stomatitis usually goes away without treatment. Medication is sometimes
used.
Blisters usually heal in 1-2 weeks.
To prevent the spread of infection, do not share drinks, food, or eating
utensils.
Call the doctor if you have questions or concerns about your child's illness.
Your child needs immediate care if he is dehydrated.
References
Health Square. Herpes Stomatitis in Children. (cited 2001 October 15). Available
from: URL: http://www.healthsquare.com/mc/fgmc0615.htm#TOP
Hull, JW M.D. Stomatitis. Encyclopedia Index. (cited 2001 October 15). Available
from: URL: http://www.drhull.com/EncyMaster/S/stomatitis.html
MedlinePlus. Herpetic Stomatitis. (cited 2001 October 15). Available from:
URL: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001383.htm
"Virtual Pediatric Hospital", the Virtual Pediatric Hospital logo, and "A digital library of pediatric information" are all Trademarks of Donna M. D'Alessandro, M.D. and Michael P. D'Alessandro, M.D.
Virtual Pediatric Hospital is funded in whole by Donna M. D'Alessandro, M.D. and Michael P. D'Alessandro, M.D. Advertising is not accepted.
Your personal information remains confidential and is not sold, leased, or given to any third party be they reliable or not.
The information contained in Virtual Pediatric Hospital is not a substitute for the medical care and advice of your physician. There may be variations in treatment that your physician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.
