The damage to the lining of the mouth makes eating difficult, and closing the mouth may be painful, so the person may drool. The eyes may become very painful, swell, and become so filled with pus that they seal shut. The corneas can become scarred. The opening through which urine passes may also be affected, making urination difficult and painful. Treatment Erythema multiforme usually heals on its own, but Stevens-Johnson syndrome can be fatal.
Doctors try to treat any infectious cause or eliminate any drugs that are suspected causes.
When the cause of erythema multiforme is thought to be herpes simplex, oral acyclovir is usually given. Blisters or sores on the skin usually are covered with tap water compresses. Oral corticosteroids may be used in severe or persistent, recurring cases, but their use is controversial. At the slightest indication of infection, antibiotics are prescribed. When erythema multiforme makes eating or drinking impossible, nutrition and fluids are given intravenously.