What causes a middle-aged woman's lips to turn purple?

Sep 13, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Ziqi

Introduction

In general, purple lips in middle-aged women may be caused by factors such as low ambient temperature, vitamin deficiency, cheilitis, declining ovarian function, or arrhythmia. If the surrounding environment is cold, the skin on the surface of the body exposed to air may experience vasoconstriction of capillaries due to the cold, leading to reduced local blood circulation. This can result in changes in skin color, such as purple lips or pale complexion.

In general, purple lips in middle-aged women may be caused by factors such as low ambient temperature, vitamin deficiency, cheilitis, ovarian function decline, or arrhythmia. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Low environmental temperature

If the surrounding temperature is low, the skin on the surface of the body exposed to air may experience vasoconstriction of capillaries due to cold, leading to reduced local blood circulation. This can result in changes in skin color, such as purple lips and pale complexion. It is recommended that women maintain adequate warmth and drink more warm water to promote blood circulation and help alleviate symptoms.

2. Vitamin deficiency

Poor dietary habits over a long period, such as picky eating, may lead to insufficient intake of vitamins, resulting in dry skin, purple discoloration of the lips, and skin keratosis. Women are advised to correct unhealthy eating habits and maintain a balanced diet. Consuming more fresh fruits and vegetables is beneficial. Additionally, supplements such as vitamin C tablets or vitamin B2 tablets may be taken under medical guidance.

3. Cheilitis

Poor lip hygiene over time may allow bacterial invasion and trigger inflammation. Most affected women may experience symptoms such as lip swelling and purple discoloration. Treatment may include topical medications such as tacrolimus ointment or erythromycin ointment, as directed by a physician, along with wet compresses applied to the lips for relief.

4. Ovarian function decline

As women age and gradually enter menopause, hormonal changes lead to declining ovarian function and potential endocrine disorders. If blood supply within the body is inadequate, symptoms of hypoxia may appear, including fatigue, purple lips, and shortness of breath. Women can consume more blood-nourishing foods such as spinach and pork liver to improve nutritional status.

5. Arrhythmia

In middle-aged women, gradually decreasing estrogen levels may affect the cardiovascular system, potentially causing arrhythmia. Arrhythmia can impair normal cardiac pumping function, leading to symptoms such as purple lips and night sweats. Medications such as quinidine sulfate tablets or procainamide hydrochloride tablets may be used under medical supervision.

If symptoms persist, women should seek timely medical attention to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.

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What causes the lips to appear dark purple from childhood?

In general, dark or purplish lips from a young age may be caused by genetic factors, long-term unhealthy lifestyle habits, chronic cheilitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart failure, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo treatment under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, it is advisable to take sun protection measures to avoid excessive exposure of the lips to sunlight, maintain a balanced diet, and undergo regular physical examinations.