Crusty sore on my lip won’t go away. Appointment is impossible to get right now. What is this?

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There are several reasons why a sore on your lip might not heal. The most common causes are viral infections, bacterial infections, allergies, or constant irritation. Each of these affects your lips in a different way and needs its own kind of treatment. While some causes, like a simple cut or chapped lips, are not serious and will get better with basic care, others might need a doctor’s help. Knowing the possible causes can help you choose the right self-care steps and have a better conversation with a healthcare provider.

Viral Culprits: Cold Sores

Cold sores, which are also called fever blisters, are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). They often show up as a cluster of small, painful blisters that can break open and form a crust. Cold sores are very easy to spread and can be brought on by stress, sickness, or too much sun.

Normally, cold sores heal within two to four weeks. But sometimes, they can become a persistent problem if you get them often or if they get a secondary infection. While antiviral medicines can help manage the symptoms and reduce how often you get them, they don’t actually get rid of the virus.

Allergies and IrritationContinue reading…

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