How to manage recurrent herpes infection on the corner of the lips?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have herpes on my lips and inside my mouth for the third time in the past two months. The symptoms are fluid blisters and itching on the lips in the corners.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern. Yes, it looks like herpes labialis (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity). Herpes can be recurrent. If there are multiple episodes within three to six months or more than six in a year, continuous antivirals like tablet Acyclovir 400 mg twice a day might be required. This therapy is called Suppressive therapy for herpes simplex infection, and it is usually quite helpful in recurrent herpes. I would still recommend you consult a nearby dermatologist for an in-person examination to check if other tests are required. For the current episode, you can take tablet Acyclovir 400 mg three times a day for five days and apply cream Tbact twice a day. Take care.