7. Swelling or Significant Tenderness
Inflammation can cause the lips or surrounding skin to become swollen and sensitive.
Mild swelling may occur after irritation, injury, an allergic reaction, or various infections. More significant swelling deserves closer attention.
If swelling develops suddenly and involves the tongue or throat, or if there is difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek emergency medical attention immediately because a severe allergic reaction can become dangerous very quickly.
8. Pay Attention to Symptoms Beyond the Lips
The lips may not be the only place where symptoms occur.
Depending on the underlying cause, someone might also experience symptoms elsewhere, such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, sore throat, or skin changes.
The combination of symptoms can sometimes be more informative than one isolated skin lesion.
That is why trying to diagnose yourself solely by comparing a photograph on social media with another photograph can be misleading.
9. Oral Changes Can Have Many Causes
It is also important to remember that not every mouth sore is related to a sexually transmitted infection or another serious illness.
Mouth and lip problems can arise from:
- Minor trauma
- Irritation
- Allergic reactions
- Dryness
- Canker sores
- Viral infections
- Bacterial infections
- Certain medications
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Dermatological conditions
Some people may also develop recurring mouth ulcers without having a serious underlying disease.
The appearance, location, duration, accompanying symptoms, and medical history all matter.