What causes cold sores on the lips?
Sep 13, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, oral herpes refers to cold sores. Cold sores may be caused by factors such as high levels of stress, excessively dry lips, ultraviolet exposure, skin trauma, or hand-foot-and-mouth disease. It is important to maintain good daily habits and a regular lifestyle, while keeping the lips moisturized and clean, which helps support healthy skin. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider.
Generally, oral herpes refers to cold sores (herpes labialis). Cold sores may be triggered by factors such as high levels of psychological stress, excessively dry lips, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, skin trauma, or hand-foot-and-mouth disease. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. High Psychological Stress
Emotional tension, anxiety, and excessive stress can reactivate the latent herpes simplex virus in the body, leading to cold sores. It's important to learn how to regulate emotions and maintain a positive and optimistic mindset.
2. Excessively Dry Lips
Remaining in a dry environment for prolonged periods may damage the mucous membrane of the lips, making them more susceptible to viral infection and resulting in cold sore symptoms. It's essential to keep the lips moisturized by using lip balm and increasing daily water intake.
3. Ultraviolet Radiation
Intense UV exposure can impair the skin barrier of the lips, triggering an outbreak of cold sores. When sunlight is strong, apply sunscreen, wear wide-brimmed hats or sunglasses, and avoid prolonged direct sun exposure.
4. Skin Trauma
Injuries to the lips such as bites, burns, or abrasions can create entry points for bacteria or viruses, leading to cold sores, often accompanied by symptoms like bleeding and swelling. Treatment may include medications such as triamcinolone acetonide acetic acid cream, vitamin E lotion, or erythromycin ointment, used according to medical advice.
5. Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease
Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is usually caused by various enteroviruses. These viruses may infect the mucous membranes of the lips, causing inflammatory reactions and exudation beneath the mucosa, resulting in cold sores, typically accompanied by fever and rashes. Under medical supervision, treatments may include Lanqin oral liquid, ribavirin granules, or Pudilan anti-inflammatory oral liquid.
Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits and regular作息 (daily routines), avoiding late nights and excessive fatigue, as well as keeping the lips moisturized and clean, can help support overall skin health.
