I have had burning, almost blistering, swollen lips for a couple of weeks now. I've tried to research this but don't find much about it. Do you have any ideas?



Cause of swollen, blistering lips: This is a very painful and uncomfortable condition. They are sometimes accompanied by fever, a burning, tingling and itching sensation, and a feeling of malaise. First a tiny red blister appears on the lips or outer edges of the mouth. It may be filled with a fluid, and then form a scab. In severe cases, the lips may crack and bleed. They can occur due to many reasons.

  • Sometimes they occur after a fever and are called fever blisters.
  • Hormonal changes caused by stress or menstruation can also lead to lip blisters or cold sores.
  • It could also be an allergic reaction.
  • Stomach disorders such as acidity, ulcers or heartburn may occasionally cause these symptoms, as also excessive consumption of caffeine, sugar, alcohol, spices, refined flour and soft drinks.
  • Swollen lips and cold sores can be caused by the highly contagious Herpes Simplex Virus.
  • In some cases, these blisters are due to a viral infection called Acromegaly or Muccopolysacharidosis.

Treatment: If you suffer from repeated blisters and if the condition persists for more than two weeks, you should consult a doctor to diagnose the actual cause. But in the meantime, you can try out a few remedies at home to reduce the pain.

  • Applying ice on the lips may reduce the swelling and pain.
  • Keep the lips moisturized by applying a lip balm or Aloe Vera gel. Garlic oil is also quite effective.
  • A paste of cornstarch applied on the blister provides relief, as does application of mint extract.
  • Herbs like calendula and burdock are very soothing when applied to these sores.
  • You can also try applying a mixture of olive oil and grapefruit seed extract.
  • Tea is particularly effective in treating mouth blisters, since it contains high amounts of anti-oxidants. When you are suffering from cold sores, drink plenty of green tea or sage tea to which you have added some ginger. Do not throw away the tea bag, but apply it to your lips for some time. This helps to draw out the toxins.
  • Witch Hazel assists in healing. Applying an ointment of witch hazel will bring relief.
  • Another remedy is to apply a paste made from olive oil and turmeric powder. Turmeric has healing properties, and olive oil soothes and softens the lips.
  • You could also apply some chilled milk cream or coconut oil.
  • A drop of tea tree oil often yields magical results and aids instant recovery.
  • Calamine lotion gives relief from the burning sensation.
  • Avoid foods like coffee, refined flours, soft drinks, alcohol and oatmeal. Increase your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables.

answered by G M


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