HomeAnswersDermatologyherpesI have itchy spots near my mouth which started two days ago. Should I be concerned?

What could be the reason for itchy spots near the mouth?

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Published At January 4, 2024
Reviewed AtJanuary 17, 2024

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have an itch near my mouth, which results in some dot-like spots. It started two days ago. I try not to touch it. I have been taking some muscle relaxants for my lower back. What could this be?

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and understand your concern.

From the image provided (attachments removed to protect patient privacy), it appears to be herpes labialis, which is a viral infection that can occur commonly at the angle of the mouth. They appear as small vesicle or pimple-like lesions which looks like they are filled with water. They usually occur due to contact or direct exposure with an infected person. However, there are also other possibilities that include a weakened immune system, due to fixed drug eruptions, etc. There is nothing to worry about. It is usually self-limiting and will reduce in the next two weeks. For faster healing, I would advise you to take antiviral oral medications as well as creams that can be applied to the affected area.

However, I would also advise you to have a direct consultation in order to have the area examined in person. Apart from this examination, testing by doing an antibody test for herpes simplex virus is also important in order to rule out the same. Usually, the lesions would be tingly and would have itching prior to the formation of these rashes which you rightly mentioned. This results in the formation of these rashes which can have a slight burning sensation. They will eventually break and heal without any scarring. I suggest you take:

1. Tablet Acyclovir 400 mg (consume this tablet daily every four hours for the next seven days. Make sure to consume this five times a day in total).

2. Zinc oxide cream (Use this cream twice daily, once in the morning and once at night on the affected area for the next 10 to 15 days).

3. Tab Levocetirizine montelukast (consume this tablet at night before going to bed for one week. It helps in reducing the itching and discomfort).

4. Tab Paracetamol 650 mg (can also be taken whenever you experience pain in the affected area. Do not take it more than three times daily, and when consumed there should be an interval of at least eight hours between consumption of two tablets).

5. Tab Zinc acetate 50 mg (consume once daily after breakfast for one month. This helps increase your immunity). Consult your doctor and take the medication accordingly.

6. Cold compresses using three to four ice cubes wrapped in a clean towel can be used on the affected area once or twice daily to reduce the sensation of itching and pain.

I suggest you do an HSV (herpes simplex virus) antibody and PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test (Antibody testing in person from a laboratory is advised in order to rule out herpes simplex). Do not pick or do not touch the rashes as there is a high chance of the infection being spread to another person. Make sure to have meals daily without skipping them. Weak immunity can attract viral infections quickly. Therefore, maintaining a strong immune system is very important.

I hope this information will help you. Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Is herpes labialis lifelong? Can I pass it on to anyone?

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Yes, it is infectious with direct contact or through through the secretions in the lesions. It is self-limiting and will reduce on its own within two weeks. However, the medications will help with a speedy recovery. A direct consultation for examination and testing is advised.

I hope this information will help you. Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Sandhya Narayanan Kutty
Dr. Sandhya Narayanan Kutty

Venereology

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