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First of all, kisses are extremely pleasant. However, in addition to building and strengthening the emotional bond of partners, they also bring many health benefits. They can, among other things, reduce stress and stimulate metabolism. Unfortunately, kisses sometimes also carry the risk of transmitting the disease. What should we watch out for and how to prevent unwanted infections?
- Colds and flu spread very quickly in the environment. A kiss can additionally accelerate the moment of contracting the disease
- The bacteria passed on during a kiss create plaque. “Bad” bacteria can lead to significant cavities and even gum disease
- Herpes is an extremely common disease caused by kissing
- Kissing can also lead to the development of mononucleosis, meningitis, and infection with syphilis
- Respond before it’s too late. Get to know your Health Index!
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Virus particles spread in the air we exhale, so a kiss is not the only way to become infected. Both coughing and sneezing carry the viruses several meters away because they are spread by airborne droplets. Nevertheless, a kiss increases the possibility of transmitting the disease. An infection with bacteria or viruses in saliva is called contact spreading. Therefore, we should avoid kissing someone who has a cold, signs of the flu, or obvious cold sores. It is also very important to maintain proper oral hygiene to prevent infections.
Kiss-borne diseases – Tooth decay and gum disease
When kissing, we not only share our saliva, but also exchange bacteria and viruses that live in our mouths. Gum disease is therefore not caused by the kiss itself, but by the accompanying bacterial exchange. If the “bad” bacteria find fertile ground, in this case a weakened immune system, the disease can progress much faster. This is because bacteria builds up in the mouth, creating plaque, which can cause gum loss or disease. The best way to prevent these kinds of problems is, first and foremost, to maintain proper oral hygiene. Therefore, it is important to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before going to bed.
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Kiss-borne diseases – herpes
The herpes virus infection is one of the most common kissing infections. This virus is transmitted through direct contact with mucous membranes and the skin. Infection can also occur when drinking from the same vessel, sharing cutlery or even one towel. Herpes labialis appears in the form of painful, inflammatory vesicles and is a recurrent disease. Sometimes it also looks like small ulcers.
- See also: Herpes – course, infection treatment. Home remedies for cold sores
Kiss-borne diseases – mononucleosis
Mononucleosis is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. Because of how quickly it spreads through our saliva, it is often called the “kissing disease”. Mononucleosis causes flu-like symptoms – it is accompanied by severe fatigue, sore throat, fever and swollen lymph nodes. This disease most often occurs in young people between the ages of 15 and 30. Treatment of mononucleosis is a long process that is largely based on the spontaneous passage of the infection. Therefore, when fighting the disease, it is worth to rest, drink plenty of fluids and eat well. However, you may find it helpful to take over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms.
Kiss-borne diseases – meningitis
Meningitis is a very serious disease. In the event of its occurrence, it is necessary to seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of meningitis include fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, and vomiting. This disease is caused by both bacteria and viruses. Although viral meningitis is spread through respiratory secretions, it is less serious than bacterial meningitis (where close contact is required – such as a kiss). Mostly, it is the bacterial infection that causes the symptoms undesirable by us, because infection with the virus rarely turns into meningitis.
- Editors recommend: The seven most common venereal diseases
Kiss-transmitted diseases – syphilis
Syphilis is classified as a venereal disease, as it is most often transmitted through sexual activity. Unfortunately, the moment of infection may also be the moment of kissing, especially if it is enriched with gentle biting. Syphilis infection is caused by the spirochete bacteria when they enter the blood through damaged epidermis. Syphilis can cause round, open, and infectious sores in the mouth.