How to help 12mo old son w mouthsores?

Question

My son has an initial infection of herpes simplex virus type 1 (cold sores). He has multiple sores in his mouth - tounge, gums, lips, throat. Our local rural health aides have advised us to scrub all of his sores with either salt water or water with baking soda. They told us to scrub until it bleeds. I was wondering if this was necessary. We also dab his sores with a one-to-one mixture of maalox and infants benadryl for numbing.

Answer 1

1-Keep the the cold sores clean and dry
2-Replace your toothbrush and don't keep it in the bathroom which is a moist enviornment that herpes simplex could hope for.
3-Don't put the brush that has been in his mouth up to the toothpaste tube which can transmit too
4-Several studies show that a water based zinc solution,helps speed healing time.
5-Ice might decrease inflammation
6-Some patients claim that breaking a sore and using WITCH HAZEL or alcohol to dry it really helps.
7-Avoid arginine-rich foods such as chocolate,cola,peas,grain cereals,peanuts,gelatin.
8-Soften it with an over the counter,they contain some emollient to reduce cracking and soften scabs,and a numbing agent like phenol or camphor.
9-You can protect the cold sore by covering it with petroleum jelly,be sure not to dip back into the jelly with your finger,or use a swab.
Goodluck & Best Wishes

Answer 2

You may have to go to a dietician and or allergist to inspect the problem. It may be a dietary problem or not enough of certain vitamins in your childs' system. Whatever the cause, it should be dealt with a specialist, in your area.

Answer 3

No, take him to a doctor, or a hospital. Get some meds for the child before he gets a really bad infection and dies from it.

Answer 4

go back to doctor