Gingivostomatitis
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
Gingivostomatitis (GS) is a condition that causes painful sores on the lips, tongue, gums, and inside the mouth. GS is caused by the herpes simplex virus. The virus spreads easily from person to person through saliva or shared objects. The sores usually heal within 2 weeks with treatment.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Return to the emergency department if:
- You have severe pain.
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- Your fever or other symptoms return after treatment.
- You are urinating less than usual.
- Your mouth sores are draining pus or blood.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
You may need any of the following:
- Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
- NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
- Numbing medicine helps decrease pain from your mouth sores. This medicine is usually a liquid that you swish in your mouth and then spit out.
- Antiviral medicine helps treat a viral infection.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Manage your symptoms:
- Brush your teeth at least 2 times each day. Floss at least 1 time each day. If you wear dentures, make sure they fit properly.
- Drink liquids as directed to prevent dehydration. It is important to drink liquids even though your mouth is sore. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you.
- Eat a variety of healthy foods. You may need to eat bland foods until your pain gets better. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, and fish. Do not eat spicy, dry, hard, or acidic foods, such as oranges.
- Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can cause mouth and lung damage. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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