Bumps on the lip are usually inoffensive blisters that pass after a couple of days. However, this is not always the case. Certain types of lip blisters require professional attention. Therefore, I have prepared a list of causes, signs, and symptoms that will help you define the severity of lip anomalies and when to check in with your doctor.
Keep in mind that most of these issues don’t require treatment. What can cause bumps on the lip? Often they are a result of an infection; however, they also appear during allergic reactions or lip bruises. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the types of lip bumps:
Cold sores
Cold sores are pretty common and harmless. We are exposed to the herpes simplex virus (HSV) during childhood through skin contact, such as kissing. They can appear anywhere on the face but often come out on the lips. HSV is a contagious virus that remains in our bodies for good.
You can detect cold sores at an early stage as the place where they are about to appear tingles. Next, you’ll see a small fluid-filled blister that will eventually burst and crust over into a scab. Although small and harmless, you can feel pain and irritation, which should heal and disappear in 10 days.
If the blister is very big, your gums hurt pretty bad, they don’t disappear after 10 days, or they keep coming back often, don’t hesitate to check in with your doctor. Also, if your immunity system is weak due to certain health conditions, seek professional advice.
Hand, foot, and mouth disease
Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) are typical for small children. Some of the signs and symptoms are fever, sore throat and mouth, loss of appetite, and a general sense of feeling unwell. Red spots appear in the mouth at an early stage and turn into severe sores. You can also experience a rash on the skin, such as hands, soles of the feet, and even the groin.
Syphilis
Syphilis starts with mild symptoms that are often overlooked. Caused by a bacterial infection, this sexually transmissible disease (STD) begins with a red skin lesion around the genitals or anus. However, it sometimes appears on the lip or inside the mouth.
This disease requires medical care and is usually treated with antibiotics.
Oral candidiasis
Oral thrush is a yeast infection caused by Candida. Although it grows naturally in our mouth, it can sometimes become a problem. Easy identifiable through white bumps on the tongue or inside the mouth. It can cause loss of taste and pain when eating. However, OTC antifungal medication can cure it. Check in with your doctor if the thrush persists even after treatment.
Allergic reactions
Allergic reactions to various substances can cause the lip to swell. Certain food allergens, pets, or even cosmetic products can trigger bumps on the lip. However, often these appear quickly and disappear after a few days.
Mild causes
Bumps on the lip can also be triggered by lip dryness, especially when you are dehydrated. Sunburn and stress are the other two possible causes.
Severe bumps on the lip
You should see a doctor when:
- lip bumps don’t heal for weeks
- mouth or face swelling
- difficulty when breathing or swallowing
- mouth, lips, gums numbness
- loss of teeth
- rapid spreading rash
Home remedies
Most of the above health problems are treated with OTC medications; however, I have a few home remedies for some of them.
To speed up the healing process, wash your face with warm water and then use a cleaner. Refrain from rubbing your face with a towel afterward. Instead, try gently tapping the skin dry. Avoid applying cosmetics on the skin when you have bumps on the lip, such as face creams or sun protection cream.
Don’t overlook what you eat. Eating healthy is always a plus when having a health condition, including bumps on the lip. Try to include as many vitamins and minerals from whole foods in your diet and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Refrain from touching lip bumps to avoid further infection. Also, brush your teeth and floss daily to maintain good oral hygiene. Nourish your lips with a sun protection lip balm made of natural ingredients.