Teething itself does not cause cold sores. Cold sores are caused by a viral infection. While teething doesn’t initiate this infection, it can influence an outbreak if the virus is already present in the baby’s system.
Understanding Cold Sores in Infants
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). This virus is highly contagious and often transmitted through direct contact with an infected person’s saliva or active cold sores. Most individuals acquire HSV-1 between ages one and five, though infants can contract it earlier.
Once a baby contracts HSV-1, the virus remains in their body for life, often lying dormant. A primary HSV-1 infection in infants can present with more severe symptoms than typical cold sores in older children or adults. These include widespread sores in and around the mouth, swollen gums (gingivostomatitis), fever, irritability, and difficulty feeding. In rare but serious cases, especially in newborns or infants under six months, the infection can spread to other organs or the brain, making prompt medical attention crucial.
Teething and Cold Sore Triggers
Teething does not directly cause cold sores. However, the stress associated with teething can trigger a latent HSV-1 infection to reactivate. When a baby is teething, they may experience discomfort, inflammation, and sometimes a low-grade fever, which can temporarily weaken their immune system. This weakening allows the dormant virus to become active and cause an outbreak.
Other factors can also trigger cold sore recurrences in individuals who carry the HSV-1 virus. Common triggers include other illnesses, fever, fatigue, physical stress, sun exposure, or hormonal changes. Teething can coincide with a cold sore outbreak, acting as a precipitating factor for an existing infection, not the original cause.
Preventing and Managing Infant Cold Sores
Preventing HSV-1 transmission to infants involves careful hygiene and avoiding direct contact with active cold sores. Adults with cold sores should refrain from kissing the baby, especially near the mouth, nose, or eyes. Frequent and thorough hand washing is important before touching or caring for an infant. Sharing items that come into contact with saliva, such as utensils, cups, towels, or toys, should also be avoided. If a cold sore is present, covering it can help prevent accidental transmission.
If a baby develops a cold sore, seek medical advice promptly, especially for newborns or infants under six months, as the infection can be more severe. A healthcare provider can diagnose the condition and recommend management. Supportive care includes ensuring the baby stays hydrated, offering pain relief medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (if age-appropriate and advised by a doctor), and providing cool foods or liquids to soothe discomfort. Antiviral medications may be prescribed for severe or recurrent outbreaks, or for young infants, to help reduce the infection’s duration and severity. Prevent the baby from touching the cold sore and then their eyes, as this can lead to a serious eye infection.