Lip Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice

Lip issues

Hello, I would like to ask about suddenly feeling a slight pain in my lips at night.
When I looked, they seemed a bit red.
Is this normal? I asked my sister, and she said it might be because I accidentally bit them, and that applying oral ointment would be fine.
However, I remember hearing in biology class or from friends that having white patches in the mouth is not good and that I should go to the hospital for a check-up.
I would like to ask the doctor if my situation counts as that? Or is my condition of redness and pain something my family said doesn't require seeing a doctor? Thank you.

Xiao Lin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/12/16

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, the most common cause of red and painful lips is indeed accidentally biting them.
Aside from that, the most frequent issue is viral infections, such as herpes virus infections.
Most cases will resolve on their own, so there is no need to worry.
As for the very few cases that persist for a long time, there is a small possibility of pathological changes.
If it does not improve after a long period, it would be advisable to consult a dental clinic.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2022/12/16

More Info

When experiencing lip pain, especially if it is accompanied by redness or other symptoms, it is important to assess the situation carefully. Your description of feeling slight pain in your lips, along with some redness, could be due to a variety of causes, and understanding these can help determine whether you should seek medical advice.

Firstly, minor lip pain and redness can often be attributed to simple causes such as chapping, irritation from environmental factors (like cold weather or sun exposure), or even accidental biting. If you suspect that you may have bitten your lip, applying a soothing lip balm or an over-the-counter topical ointment may provide relief. In many cases, these types of injuries heal on their own without the need for medical intervention.

However, there are other conditions that could cause similar symptoms and may require medical attention. For example, if the redness and pain persist or worsen, or if you notice additional symptoms such as swelling, blistering, or the presence of white patches inside your mouth, it could indicate a more serious issue. Conditions such as angular cheilitis (inflammation at the corners of the mouth), herpes simplex virus (cold sores), or oral thrush (a fungal infection) can present with similar symptoms and may need specific treatments.

The mention of "white patches" in your mouth is particularly noteworthy. While some white patches can be harmless, others may indicate infections or conditions that require medical evaluation. For instance, oral thrush presents as creamy white lesions in the mouth and can be a sign of an underlying health issue, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems. If you observe any white patches, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

In summary, if your lip pain is mild, localized, and you can attribute it to a minor cause (like biting or dryness), you may not need to see a doctor right away. However, if the pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms (such as swelling, blistering, or white patches), it is prudent to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can conduct a thorough examination, provide a proper diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options based on your specific condition.

In conclusion, while minor lip pain can often be managed at home, being vigilant about changes in your symptoms is crucial. If in doubt, it is always better to err on the side of caution and consult a healthcare professional for peace of mind and proper care.

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