What causes the lower lip to turn purple?

Generally, purple discoloration of the lower lip may be caused by physiological factors, anemia, trauma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, congenital heart disease, or other reasons. This condition can be improved through warmth, medication, surgical treatment, and other methods. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention and receive symptomatic treatment under a physician's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Physiological Factors

Prolonged exposure to cold environments may cause vasoconstriction and poor circulation, which could lead to purple discoloration of the lower lip. Keeping warm and avoiding extended exposure to cold conditions is advised. Additionally, reducing intake of foods high in pigments may help alleviate symptoms, which can resolve on their own after some time.

2. Anemia

Long-term anemia may lead to inadequate cardiac blood supply and reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, resulting in purple discoloration of the lower lip. Under a physician's guidance, anemia symptoms can be improved by taking medications such as ferrous sulfate tablets, folic acid tablets, and ferrous succinate tablets.

3. Trauma

Injuries or coagulation disorders may cause subcutaneous bleeding in the lower lip, resulting in purple discoloration. For subcutaneous bleeding caused by trauma, symptoms such as swelling and pain can be relieved by applying cold compresses with an ice pack.

4. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation. It may impair the oxygen exchange function of the lungs, leading to reduced oxygen levels in the blood and resulting in purple discoloration of the lower lip. Medications such as salbutamol inhalation aerosol and terbutaline sulfate granules may be used under medical advice to alleviate symptoms.

5. Congenital Heart Disease

Congenital heart disease may impair cardiac function and affect circulation, causing decreased oxygen levels in the blood and resulting in purple discoloration of the lower lip. Under a physician's guidance, corrective cardiac surgery can be performed to treat congenital heart defects.

Routine lip care, such as applying lip balm, and dietary adjustments, such as increasing intake of foods rich in iron and vitamin C (e.g., lean meat, pork liver, spinach), are recommended to promote overall health.