I have a three year old refugee child that was just placed in my home we took her to the dr and she was diagnosed with strep. she has about five sores on mer bottom lip and her gums are bleedling like crazy. I have given her he prescribed medicine, motrin, and ora gel. Do we need to go back to the dr?
Hi. Thanks for the query. As per your complaint it seems that your child is suffering from HEPATIC GINGIVOSTOMATITIS which is a viral infection and can lead to outbreaks of blisters in and around the mouth known as cold sores and along with it painful, bleeding swollen gums,. All the symptoms that you explained are completely pointing towards herpes virus infection. It is a contagious infection and the child may get it from kissing, eating or coming in contact with people who have active infection. You should feed your son with a soft, cold and bland diet, a low spice vegetable soup, flavored gelatin, bread socked in milk etc. can be given. Avoid citrus juices like orange juice and can give him fresh apple juice. For fever, you can give him Tylenol or Acetaminophen . Application of a numbing gel like Lidocaine over the gums and other sore areas of mouth can provide relief, but care should be taken not to involve large areas of mouth as when being numb the child can accidentally bite the tongue and also damage other areas of mouth unknowingly. Sucking ice pops or a frozen apple juice Popsicle can help in reducing inflammation and discomfort... Maintain a good oral hygiene and use an ultra soft toothbrush for brushing can help by preventing trauma and pain to gums. Antiviral medicines like Acyclovir can be advised by a Pediatrician to reduce the duration of the disease and prevent further outbreaks. Hope this helps. Regards.