How to quickly remove oral herpes (cold sores)
Dec 01, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, "feng du" (wind toxin) on the lips may be caused by factors such as external contraction of wind-cold stimulating the lips, consumption of spicy and heat-inducing foods leading to internal heat, infection with the herpes simplex virus, chronic cheilitis, or secondary infection from seborrheic dermatitis. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through general management, medication, and other treatments. In daily life, maintaining regular sleep patterns, avoiding staying up late, and enhancing immunity are important.
Generally, "wind toxin" on the lips may be caused by external contraction of wind-cold stimulating the lips, consuming spicy and pungent foods that induce internal heat, infection with the herpes simplex virus, chronic cheilitis, or secondary infection due to seborrheic dermatitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through general care, medication, and other treatments. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. External wind-cold stimulation of the lips: Cold wind blowing directly on the lips causes blood vessels in the skin to constrict and then reflexively dilate, leading to redness, swelling, and pain. When going outdoors, wear a mask to shield against cold winds, avoid direct exposure of the lips, gently wipe the lips with warm water, and apply fragrance-free lip balm to maintain moisture and reduce cold irritation.
2. Spicy, hot diet causing internal heat: Excessive consumption of spicy and heating foods such as chili peppers, Sichuan pepper, and hot pot can lead to accumulation of internal heat rising to the lips, resulting in redness, swelling, and blisters. Immediately stop eating spicy foods and drink more warm water, chrysanthemum tea, or other cooling beverages.
3. Herpes simplex virus infection: The virus lies dormant in the nerve ganglia of the lips and becomes activated when the body is chilled or fatigued, causing blistering, redness, and pain on the lips. Follow your doctor’s instructions to use medications such as acyclovir cream, valacyclovir tablets, or famciclovir capsules. Avoid touching the affected area with hands to prevent viral spread.
4. Chronic cheilitis: Long-term lip-licking, lip-biting, or contact with irritants damages the lip mucosa, leading to dryness, redness, swelling, and ulceration. Under medical guidance, topical treatments such as erythromycin ointment, tacrolimus ointment, or oral vitamin B2 tablets may be used. Correct habits like lip-licking and avoid using alcohol-containing lip products.
5. Secondary infection from seborrheic dermatitis: Excessive sebum secretion around the lips leads to clogged pores and inflammation, followed by bacterial infection causing redness and pus discharge. Patients should follow medical advice to use medications such as mupirocin ointment, fluocinonide ointment, or cefradine capsules to alleviate symptoms.
In daily life, maintain regular作息 (sleep patterns), avoid staying up late to enhance immunity. Do not peel off dead skin from the lips, as this may damage the mucosa and worsen symptoms. With proper treatment and careful care, symptoms of "wind toxin" on the lips can be quickly relieved, promoting overall lip health.
