Differentiating Between Oral Herpes and Canker Sores
Are you dealing with an oral sore and unsure if it's herpes or a canker sore? I’m a 25-year-old male who has recently relocated to a new state and am currently searching for a testing facility. The thought of possibly having herpes is quite daunting for me. I can’t share images here, but I want to describe what I’m experiencing. I have developed a sizable bump on the outside of my lip that resembles a canker sore. This bump is round and crater-like. Interestingly, it doesn’t cause any pain or tingling, yet I find myself picking at it out of sheer annoyance that it’s present. Upon reviewing some photos taken a couple of days prior to the bump being noticeable, I could see a tiny bump that gradually progressed to its current form. As I explore information about herpes, I’m realizing that my symptoms don’t align with typical cases. Most descriptions refer to clusters of small bumps filled with pus that eventually crust over, whereas I simply have the singular crater-shaped bump with no signs of oozing or scabbing. A challenge I face is the lack of visual references for herpes specifically on darker skin tones. I wonder if it would be possible to share an image for further insight into what this could potentially be. 🙏🏾
Answers (1)
8/14/2025, 11:20:58 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're feeling uncertain about the bump on your lip, and it's understandable to want clarity on whether it might be an oral herpes sore or a canker sore. While I can’t diagnose your condition without seeing the sore, I can help clarify the differences between these two types of sores and suggest steps you can take.
Main Points:
- Oral Herpes vs. Canker Sores: Understanding the key differences can help you deduce what you might be experiencing.
- Self-Care Tips: Managing the sore until you can get it assessed.
- Next Steps: What to consider as you search for a testing facility.
Explanation:
-
Oral Herpes (caused by the herpes simplex virus) typically presents as small clusters of fluid-filled blisters, often painful, which may crust over after a few days. These can occur on or around the mouth.
-
Canker Sores, on the other hand, occur inside the mouth and are usually round with a white or yellow center and red edges. They can be painful but are not caused by a virus and are not contagious. The bump you're describing on your lip sounds more characteristic of a canker sore, especially since it’s round, crater-like, and non-painful.
Next Steps:
-
Avoid Picking at the Sore: Although it's annoying, picking can lead to infection or prolong healing. Try to keep the area clean and avoid irritating it further.
-
Self-Care Measures:
- Rinse your mouth with salt water or a mild mouthwash to keep the area clean and reduce irritation.
- Apply over-the-counter numbing gels if you experience any discomfort, or use ice to cool the area.
-
Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any changes - if the bump starts to ooze, becomes painful, or you develop fever or swollen lymph nodes, this would be a sign to seek medical advice more urgently.
-
Testing Facility: As you investigate testing facilities, look for local health clinics or STI testing locations. Online platforms may also provide STD testing options with discretion, and you can inquire specifically about herpes testing availability.
-
Educate Yourself: Consider reading reputable sources about oral herpes and canker sores for more insight. The CDC and Mayo Clinic offer clear, accessible information.
If your symptoms change, or if you're still worried, don't hesitate to seek medical advice when you have the opportunity. It's important to prioritize your peace of mind and health.
Related Questions
Numb Extremities
F22, 5'7", 56kg Over the last few days, I've been experiencing a peculiar problem. Just minutes after I fall asleep, I'm jolted awake, often finding that one of my arms, my leg, or even both are incapacitated. To remedy this, I have to vigorously shake and move them around until the blood circulation returns to normal. I've experimented with various sleep positions, yet none seems to alleviate the issue. The occurrence is unsettlingly unpredictable; there are nights when I wake several times just to redistribute sensation to my limbs. At this point, the thought of going to bed fills me with dread. The plethora of online resources doesn't seem to resonate with my experience. It feels surreal, as if I'm losing my grasp on reality, and honestly, I’m beginning to feel like I'm losing my mind. A visit to the doctor is on my agenda, as this happened again in the early hours of the morning—2 A.M. to be exact. Apologies for the jumble of thoughts; my mind is quite fatigued. It’s worth noting that while I’ve experienced numbness in my limbs before, it has never persisted for more than one or two nights over the course of an entire year. Furthermore, I should add that I also suffer from night terrors, particularly when I'm under stress. I often find myself awakening in a state of panic, shouting, about thirty minutes post-slumber, with no recollection of the trigger. This has become increasingly common as well.
Is It Common for a Septum to Redeviate? My Journey with ENT Issues
**A Brief Background** In October 2003, at the age of 15, I faced multiple surgeries simultaneously, which included: double jaw osteotomies, the extraction of wisdom teeth, a myringotomy, septoplasty, and turbinate reduction. The recovery period wasn’t very memorable for me, given the extent and number of procedures performed at once. **Fast Forward to Recent Years** Years later, I noticed that my upper teeth were shifting inward from the sides, resulting in a significant crossbite. I didn’t realize the severity of the issue until I sought braces again a couple of years ago. However, I remain uncertain about whether this dental shifting was influenced by my jaw or nose or if it was just an independent occurrence. It's rather perplexing, especially considering the various plates and screws placed in my jaw. A few years post-shift, my left ear, which has been problematic in the past, began to feel congested again. This re-introduced symptoms of tinnitus and dizziness, and I found myself unable to breathe through my nose, relegating me to mouth breathing, which was incredibly uncomfortable. **Back to Medical Attention in 2013** I returned to the ENT specialist who had performed the initial surgery on that side. He is a well-regarded, board-certified surgeon, highly recommended by friends and family. This procedure closely resembled the previous one, with the exception of any jaw work. For a span of several years, everything seemed manageable, but over the last six years, I feel I’ve reverted to my original state. My left nostril completely collapses when I inhale, preventing any airflow. The frustrations of my ear’s condition weigh heavily on me. I frequently find myself actively forcing air through my nose while pinching it just to achieve a fleeting sense of relief. Occasionally, I experience a brief moment when my ear opens on its own, allowing me to relish the bliss for a mere 15 seconds—an exhilarating experience that is both rare and fleeting. Yet, the dizziness, relentless tinnitus, and constant headaches have made life difficult, severely limiting my activities. Recently, I began monitoring my nighttime oxygen levels, which have been plummeting into the 70s quite regularly. I consulted two different ENT specialists, including the same surgeon from before and another reputable doctor. Unfortunately, both of my appointments ended in dismissal of my concerns. That was about two years ago now. They prescribed an ear ointment, nasal spray, and even an off-label antidepressant to help alleviate the tinnitus, but nothing seems to work. I've arranged to meet with a new double board-certified ENT and facial plastic surgeon. However, that consultation won’t happen for another month, and I’m feeling a mix of anticipation and anxiety about it. **Questions Arising** Given this background, I’m wondering if it’s typical for a septum to redeviate over time? Can you experience ear and nasal issues as if they’ve returned to how they were two decades ago? I was still quite young during my first operation, but my second surgery happened when I was more aware of my body. I haven’t grown much since I was 15—my height has remained the same—but I realize that growth involves more complexities beyond mere height increases. The dismissive attitude of some doctors has compounded my feelings of being unwell. While I struggled to articulate the extent of my suffering during those visits, I am reaching a breaking point and it has overshadowed many aspects of my life. Is there a chance that a revision surgery could adjust things? I would willingly consent to cartilage grafting or any necessary procedures to restore my quality of life, even though I’m unclear on what my normal would look like anymore. **Surgical History Summary** To provide context regarding my surgeries: **First Surgery Report (Excluding Jaw Work):** 1. Septoplasty for a deviated septum 2. Inferior turbinate reduction via cautery 3. Left myringotomy with fluid evacuation **Second Surgery Report:** 1. Septoplasty for a severely deviated septum 2. Bilateral inferior turbinate resection 3. Endoscopic resection of left middle turbinate concha bullosa 4. Left myringotomy with a tube placement 5. Right debridement of an unexpected nasal polyp that had not shown up in tests and was never discussed with me—this was news to me today. The surgical notes indicated it was inadvertently removed without being sent for pathology but appeared benign. I’m baffled as to why, despite undergoing a nearly identical surgical procedure the second time around, I still find myself in distress. Any suggestions or supportive messages would mean the world to me. **In Summary:** I'm about to embark on what seems to be a potential journey toward another surgical intervention for my deviated septum and ear concerns. Is this something that others have experienced?
The Mystery of My Mom's Sudden Illness: Four Years Later and Still No Answers
Four years ago, my mom, who is 48, experienced a drastic health change. One morning she was perfectly healthy, and by that evening, she was unwell. Ever since that day, exposure to cold environments, inhaling cool air, or consuming food at room temperature triggers a series of troubling symptoms for her: - Severe, stabbing discomfort in her lower back - An overwhelming sensation as if her body weighs 200 kilograms - Episodes of dizziness accompanied by blurred vision - Difficulty taking deep breaths - A chilling sensation in her nose, mouth, and throat, as if frozen What's particularly puzzling is that drinking extremely hot water alleviates these symptoms completely. Despite undergoing a comprehensive range of tests on her brain, spine, lungs, blood, and heart, medical professionals have concluded that everything appears normal, leaving them stumped about the underlying cause. Additionally, she has developed sensitivities; she can’t tolerate vinegar or lemon and even wears a jacket in 31°C weather, showing a noticeable inability to feel warmth. Initially, her condition was more severe to the point where she struggled to breathe regular air, but now she can endure temperatures up to 25°C before the symptoms re-emerge. This series of health issues began abruptly following a prolonged period of intense stress and depression, with no preceding gradual onset. I’m reaching out to see if anyone else has encountered similar situations or might have insights into what could be happening. We are truly seeking answers and any shared experiences would be greatly appreciated.
Understanding Klippel Feil Syndrome
As a 21-year-old female, I have had fused cervical vertebrae since birth, or that is what we believe. My diagnosis came in 2023. I’m curious about the white area present on my recent radiological images. If you’re interested in visual evidence, I’ve shared images in the comments section. Additionally, while it's not mandatory to share this info, I am currently taking medications that include Tizanidine, Meloxicam, Propranolol, Topiramate, Prochlorperazine, and Rizatriptan.
Bizarre Nerve Phenomenon
Hello! A friend suggested I reach out here. I have an unusual question, and while it might sound a bit comical, I'm serious about it. I’m a 34-year-old female, Caucasian, standing at 5'9" and weighing 330 pounds. I’m currently prescribed citalopram to manage anxiety. I don’t smoke or consume alcohol, but I do take CBD edibles. Additionally, I have undergone gastric sleeve surgery and have had my gallbladder removed. I reside in Canada. There’s something I hope to clarify regarding my body. Like most people, I find myself scratching my back occasionally. However, over the past five or six years, I’ve experienced a strange reaction: whenever I scratch or lightly brush the area at the top of my buttocks, it triggers an uncontrollable urge to urinate. It feels almost like someone is turning on a faucet. Does anyone have insight into this phenomenon?