Who doesn’t like receiving a kiss? The doctor explains why the exchange of affection can be risky for health and which diseases it can cause
Kissing is one of the best ways in the world to show affection. This cultural gesture, the first news of which dates back to 1200 BC, is undoubtedly one of the most pleasant and most important behaviors for creating human connections. Its importance is such that the act has earned a date to call its own: April 13, Kiss Day.
The appointment is also an opportunity to talk about the impacts of kissing on the body, especially as regards health. This is because, despite the various positive sensations it causes, the action of kissing can also transmit diseases, especially if the immune system of one of the people involved is compromised.
Diseases transmitted by kisses
Stomatologist Lígia Gonzaga Fernandes, of the II Vera Cruz Dental Specialties Center (CEO), managed by CEJAM (Center for Studies and Research “Dr. João Amorim”) in collaboration with the Municipal Health Department of São Paulo, states that, in In in many cases the diseases are transmitted through the exchange of saliva.
“There are situations where just droplets of the fluid are enough to transmit respiratory viruses such as influenza, Covid-19 and H1N1, as well as other diseases, such as mononucleosis (kissing disease), chicken pox and mumps,” he explains.
Not only that, there are also conditions that originate from the presence of sores in the mouth. In these cases, the infected person can transmit diseases such as herpes, HPV, syphilis and oral candidiasis, nicknamed “thrush” among Brazilians, among other diseases.
“The ideal is to avoid close contact with people who have this symptom. But it is important to remember that the majority, many times, do not even know they are infected, which ends up facilitating the infection even more,” warns the specialist.
Among the diseases with the highest incidence during kissing, the professional highlights cold sores; mononucleosis, popularly known as the “kissing disease”; and respiratory diseases caused by viruses. The doctor describes each of them. Watch:
Cold sores
Cold sores is a viral infection caused by herpes simplex 1 (HSV-1). Usually, when infected, the person has symptoms such as itching, burning and a tingling sensation in the mouth.
Shortly after these signs appear, it is common for small blisters to appear in the region, which can burst and release a liquid that contains the virus. It is precisely at this stage that the risk of transmission to other people is greatest and requires extra care.
kissing disease
Mononucleosis, or kissing disease, is also a viral infection caused by Epstein-Barr (EBV). Transmitted by saliva, the disease mainly affects the younger public. In this specific situation, it is common for infected people to experience a sore throat, fatigue, fever and swollen lymph nodes.
Breathing problems
Overall, the flu stands out as one of the most transmissible respiratory diseases through kissing. The infection is caused by the influenza virus and can cause symptoms such as fever and pain in the throat, body and head as well as cough and other symptoms. Within this disease, H1N1 is classified in group A virus and can also be easily transmitted, causing very similar, but stronger symptoms.
And, of course, we cannot forget Covid-19, which is still very present in the population, despite the decrease in the number of cases. This disease, caused by several variants of the virus, is serious and can cause headache and sore throat, fever, dry cough, loss of smell and taste, diarrhea and, in severe cases, difficulty breathing and chest pain. among other symptoms. .
Thrush
Oral candidiasis, or thrush, is a mycosis of the mouth that originates from the accumulation of the fungus Candida albicans, which usually lives on the skin and mucous membranes. Its main feature is the presence of whitish spots on the tongue, gums, inside of the cheeks and, depending on the degree of infection, on the lips.
When to seek help?
That kissing is pleasant, we all know that. However, you need to be vigilant when any of the symptoms occur. In any case, it is recommended to seek specialist care when changes in the mouth and lips are noticed.
“The appearance of sores in and around the mouth, malaise, fever, sore throat and swelling in the neck are some of the main signs to seek professional help,” says Lígia.
From medical care it is possible to arrive at the correct diagnosis through tests and the best treatments. Hence the importance of this assistance. “The cure varies according to the disease. Cold sores, for example, are treated with antiviral therapy. With antipyretics, anti-inflammatories and analgesics, as happens for mononucleosis”, concludes the professional.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
