Lip ulcers, also known as canker sores, are small, shallow sores that develop on the inside of the mouth, on the tongue, or on the lips. They can be painful and make it difficult to eat, drink, or talk. Lip ulcers are very common, affecting up to 20% of the population. They are most common in people between the ages of 10 and 40.
Lip ulcers are usually caused by a viral infection, such as the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Other causes include:
- Bacterial infections
- Trauma to the mouth
- Certain medications
- Stress
- Hormonal changes
- Vitamin deficiencies
Lip ulcers typically appear as small, round, or oval sores with a white or yellow center and a red border. They can be painful, especially when they are touched or irritated. Other symptoms of lip ulcers include:
- Burning or tingling sensation
- Swelling
- Difficulty eating, drinking, or talking
- Fever
- Fatigue
There is no cure for lip ulcers, but there are a number of things you can do to speed up the healing process and relieve your symptoms.
1. Over-the-Counter Medications
There are a number of over-the-counter medications that can help to relieve the pain and discomfort of lip ulcers. These medications include:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Naproxen sodium (Aleve)
- Lidocaine (Orajel)
2. Home Remedies
There are also a number of home remedies that can help to cure lip ulcers fast. These remedies include:
- Rinsing your mouth with salt water
- Applying a cold compress to the ulcer
- Eating yogurt or drinking milk
- Taking a zinc supplement
3. Prescription Medications
If over-the-counter medications and home remedies do not provide relief, your doctor may prescribe a prescription medication to help cure your lip ulcers. These medications include:
- Acyclovir (Zovirax)
- Valacyclovir (Valtrex)
- Famciclovir (Famvir)
4. Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is a new treatment for lip ulcers that has shown promising results. Laser therapy uses a concentrated beam of light to target the ulcer and promote healing.
5. Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove a lip ulcer. Surgery is typically only recommended if the ulcer is large, painful, or does not respond to other treatments.
There is no surefire way to prevent lip ulcers, but there are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of developing them. These things include:
- Avoiding triggers that cause your lip ulcers
- Practicing good oral hygiene
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting enough sleep
- Managing stress
You should see a doctor if your lip ulcers are:
- Large or painful
- Do not heal within 2 weeks
- Are accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever or fatigue
- Recur frequently
