There is currently not enough data concerning the risks and benefits of treating healthy children with acyclovir when they have either gingivostomatitis or cold sores. The mainstay of treatment, therefore, consists of the use of medications to reduce fever and pain. The diet will usually need to be modified, as most children will not be interested in eating or drinking normally. You should avoid citrus foods or juices, salty or spicy foods, and foods which are hard to chew. Push fluids, especially cool ones, or popsicles and ice cream.
Fluids are much more important than food.
This parent education document is a guideline only. You, as parent or primary care giver, know the child best. Lynne Scannell, MD All Rights Reserved. Inc. All Rights Reserved.