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Herpes gingivostomatitis

Herpes Gingivostomatitis
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How can you care for your child who has herpes gingivostomatitis?

  • Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
    • If the doctor gave your child a prescription medicine for pain, give it as prescribed.
    • If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.
    • Do not give aspirin to anyone younger than 20. It has been linked to Reye syndrome, a serious illness.
  • Watch for and treat signs of dehydration, which means that the body has lost too much water. Your child's mouth may feel very dry. Your child may have sunken eyes with few tears when crying. Your child may lack energy and want to be held a lot. And your child may not urinate as often as usual.
  • Give your child flavored ice pops. These may help prevent dehydration and help the mouth feel better.
  • Give your child soft, bland food that may be less painful to chew and swallow.
  • Avoid acidic drinks, such as orange juice.
  • Keep your child's towels and other objects away from other members of your family while your child has sores.

Herpes gingivostomatitis in children: When to call

Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:

  • Your child has severe trouble breathing. Symptoms may include:
    • Using the belly muscles to breathe.
    • The chest sinking in or the nostrils flaring when your child struggles to breathe.
  • Your child is very sleepy and hard to wake up.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • Your child has symptoms of dehydration, such as:
    • Dry eyes and a dry mouth.
    • Passing only a little urine.
    • Feeling thirstier than usual.
  • Your child is unable to drink any liquids.
  • Your child seems to be getting sicker.
  • Your child develops eye redness or discharge or has any vision changes.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • Your child does not get better as expected.

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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.