Relatively common in children, this oral inflammation can be very uncomfortable. What are the symptoms ? The causes ? And how do you treat her? We take stock.
Stomatitis, whether aphthous or herpetic, is a common condition in children. Affecting the oral cavity, palate, tongue, cheeks and other internal areas of the mouth, it may also expand to tonsils. How does it manifest itself? By the formation of a series of whitish blisters that appear on the lining of the mouth. In some cases, this can cause the body temperature to rise, from a few tenths to a higher fever. There are several types of stomatitis, the two main ones being aphthous stomatitis and herpetic stomatitis.
Read also: Oral thrush in babies: symptoms and treatments
Herpetic stomatitis, also known as the herpes simplex virus, is infectious, that is, caused by a virus. She appears between 6 months and 5 years in children and mainly affects those who have never been exposed to herpes. Aphthous stomatitis, on the other hand, is not infectious and reaches its peak in children. between 10 years and the period of adolescence. Statistically, the female sex is more affected than the male.
Aphthous and herpetic stomatitis in children: causes and symptoms
In children, stomatitis manifests itself visibly in the mouth. Inside the oral cavity, whitish areas or small isolated or grouped blisters form that cause pain and itching.
In the case of herpetic stomatitis, aphthous ulcers are usually accompanied by a high fever within two or three days before they disappear. There are also ulcers on the gums or tonsils, irritation of the tongue or palate, white, swollen or bloody gums, difficulty swallowing and loss of appetite, excessive salivation, swelling of the lymph nodes or halitosis (bad breath).
To read also: Teething: no more hassle!
Aphthous stomatitis, on the other hand, occurs by burning or tingling in the mouth. The blisters first appear as a red spot, then develop into open ulcers about 1 cm in size.
Herpetic stomatitis is caused by HSV-1 virus, usually contracted in early childhood, latent until manifested. Its appearance can be facilitated by the presence of irritation in the oral cavity.
Read also: 10 things not to do when your child has a fever
Defining the causes of aphthous stomatitis is more complicated. This can be caused by hereditary factors or by emotional stress, anxiety or even problems with the immune system or nutritional deficiencies, in particular a lack of vitamins B and C, folic acid or iron.
How long do stomatitis last and is there a risk of contagion?
Herpetic stomatitis causes very painful disorders within the first three to four days. The fever goes away in six to seven days. Herpes significantly reduces to go away completely after fifteen to twenty days. Other types of stomatitis, on the other hand, don't last more than three to four days and go away within a week.
Read also: 36 tips to (really) get rid of lice
Only herpetic stomatitis is contagious, the virus can be transmitted by saliva or by direct or indirect contact with the infected child. Care must be taken not to use the same cutlery, the same bedding or to have too close contact with him. In addition, you should prevent your child from touching the blisters with their finger, as this could cause the virus to spread to the rest of the mouth and even to other parts of the body.
The risk of infection exists from two days before the appearance of the blisters until the child has completely healed.
Treatment: antibiotics or other drugs?
Being a virus and not a bacteria, herpetic stomatitis cannot be treated with antibiotics. As for aphthous stomatitis, it heals on its own, without any specific treatment being necessary.
In the case of herpetic stomatitis, it can be treated with an antiviral given by mouth or intravenously, which reduces the intensity and duration of the inflammation. For this treatment to be truly effective, it must be started within the first 48 hours after the onset of infection and continued for about five days.
Read also: At 5, Arthur is fighting a rare and incurable cancer. Sandie, her mom testifies
The antiviral is prescribed for primary herpetic stomatitis and not when it is a recurring problem. In these cases, the application of ointments is recommended and / or the use of natural remedies.
If you notice that your child is suffering from herpetic stomatitis or aphthous stomatitis, it is advisable to see a doctor to determine what type of inflammation it is and what treatment will work best.
Natural remedies to soothe the effects of stomatitis
Treatments for stomatitis should always be prescribed by a doctor and may be accompanied by natural remedies that will help relieve the pain of blisters or canker sores. The aloe vera (in gel), for example, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and healing power, is suitable for treating blisters. Apply it on top to promote regeneration.
8 natural anti-lice remedies for your kids' hair
Antiseptic ointments based on rose hip, zinc or from currant can also be effective, just like tea tree oil and melaleuca oil. Gently apply it to the sores with a cotton swab.
Consuming vitamin C or lactic acid bacteria can speed up the healing process for stomatitis. Propolis or honey can also promote the regeneration of blisters.
What to eat in case of stomatitis?
It is very common that the onset of stomatitis is accompanied by a lack of appetite and difficulty swallowing. On days when the pain is most severe, you can give your child fresh food, such as milk or yogurt. It is imperative to keep it well hydrated, making him drink water and natural fruit juices. When the blisters start to heal, switch to semi-liquid foods that are easy to swallow, such as vegetable purees.
Note: Stomatitis can be caused by a lack of vitamin C. So make sure there is enough vitamin C in your child's diet. Among the foods that offer a high amount of vitamin C: broccoli, spinach, arugula, oranges or kiwis.