Thanks for the query at DoctorSpring.
From the history provided and the description of the lesions it does not look like you have any active herpetic erosions.
Your condition from the description does not sound like it is contagious.
You can have a physical contact if you do not have any open bleeding blisters or erosions.
You can get the herpes IgG and IgM antibodies done. This can prove whether you have a recent or chronic infection.
Thanks and take car
Patient replied :
Hi, thanks for responding. I'm sorry for not getting back earlier but this site takes sooo long to load that it becomes frustrating and I give up.
It has almost been a month since your last reply. During this period, I have had tingling in the lips but no outbreak. Tingling has been ongoing for 2 months now, sometimes mild, sometimes heavy. I use some balm to reduce the effects but this is just a temporary aid. Can you let me know why this tingling persists? Also, when do you recommend I get tested given the initial exposure to this person was 2 months ago. Also what tests should I get done?
Thank you for your time. It is much appreciated.
Hello,
Thanks for your reply. I can understand your concern.
Tingling may not be due to herpes. It may be due to some other cause like vitamin B12 deficiency , which can cause tingling of the lips.
I would recommend that you get a blood test done for vitamin B 12 levels. If the levels ate low you could start with vitamin B12 supplements which would relieve the tingling.
But to be on the safer side you could get tests for HSV 1 & 2 antibodies. That would indicate if you have had a recent infection with herpes or not. However, herpes may cause tingling of the lips for a short period of a week usually but not for so long.
Take care.