Fever sores are also called cold sores or fever blisters. Though the name may suggest that these sores are the result of the common cold, these sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus, often referred to as HSV type 1 virus. The sores are like any other skin-based sores that spread quickly from one part of the body to another. Further, these sores are easily communicable. The bigger sores develop into huge clusters that create a typical, blister-like appearance. However, these sores have an endemic presence, i.e. they are more concentrated in a certain part of the body. HSV sores or fever sores are usually found along the inside of gums and the upper part of the mouth, called the palate.



The sores are often accompanied by a slight rise in the body temperature. This is why HSV infections are often wrongly interpreted as common fever and the sores are called fever sores. The infection quickly spreads along the throat and can cause chronic, recurring throat infections. The sores can also spread to other areas around the mouth, i.e. externally. The infection can easily spread to the eyes and the ears too. Often the skin of the fingers develops a sore-like coloration.



Further, the genital area is very susceptible to developing HSV1 infection. Though the sores are often, moderate in severity and don't necessarily cause much discomfort, the presence of the HSV-1 virus means that the body is suffering in varying forms. This includes the body being slowly weakened due to improper nutrition and its immune system being compromised.

Understanding Symptoms of HSV1 Fever Sores

As explained above, the primary symptoms are suggestive of the patient suffering from fever. There is a marked hoarseness in the voice if the sores have spread to the throat. The herpes infection can cause other adverse reactions among the younger patients like nausea and episodes of fainting. This is perhaps one of the most commonly-misdiagnosed conditions in the pediatric field of medicine. Since children are generally vulnerable to catching cold, the symptoms are interpreted as having an infected throat, like a strep throat.

Even the accompanying fever seems to ensure that the diagnosis is directed towards a case of influenza or common cold. However, when the condition doesn't resolve even after the conventional medications are continued for some weeks, blood-testing is ordered. This is when the presence of herpes virus is usually detected. The ability of any physician to diagnose fever sores as a herpes simplex infection during the initial consultation is highly improbable.

It should be understood that the herpes virus causing the cold sores doesn't surface upon immediate contact with a contaminant. Among most patients with cold sores, the virus is already present in their bodies. This virus is usually contracted during the early teen years. However, the virus tends to modify into a dormant entity and remains inactive for many years.