Do you know that your lips are always dry, cracked, and sometimes red? You might think that this is just a normal chapped lip. However, this may be a condition that requires a little more attention. Today we are going to talk about this condition of the lips called eczema. Medically, we also call it `(Eczematous Cheilitis)`. Don't worry, we will talk about this simply, in a way that you can understand.
What is eczema on the lips (Eczematous Cheilitis)?
Simply put, lip eczema is an inflammation or allergy of the skin on your lips. It's similar to eczema (atopic dermatitis) that occurs elsewhere on the skin, but it occurs on the lips. This can cause your lips to become dry, flaky, and sometimes painfully cracked .
While chapped lips usually heal in a few days, eczema on the lips can be a more chronic condition. This means that it takes time to heal once it develops, and it can even recur.
The best part is, it's not contagious . That means it can't be spread from one person to another. Sometimes, it can happen when you have an allergic reaction to something you use, like toothpaste, soap, or cream. Or, someone who has eczema elsewhere on their body can develop it on their lips.
Are there other types of cheilitis?
Yes, the word "Cheilitis" refers to a variety of inflammatory conditions that commonly occur on the lips. Eczematous Cheilitis is the most common type. However, there are several other types. Let's take a look at what they are:
- Angular Cheilitis : This is a condition where cracks and sores develop at the corners of the mouth. It is often caused by a fungal or yeast infection.
- Infectious Cheilitis : This can be caused by viral infections such as Herpes Simplex Virus or bacterial infections such as Group A Streptococcal Infections. Some of these types can also be contagious.
Therefore, if you notice any changes on your lips, it is best to seek medical advice to find out exactly what type of cheilitis it is.
Who is more likely to develop eczema on the lips?
Although lip eczema is most common in young children, it can also affect adults . The following people are at a slightly higher risk:
- People who frequently suffer from allergies .
- People with eczema elsewhere on the skin.
- People with a condition called ``Atopy.`` This refers to a hereditary predisposition to allergies.
- People who frequently use various cosmetics or other products on their lips.
What causes eczema on the lips?
Okay, now let's see what can cause this condition of eczema on the lips. There can be several reasons:
- Allergens in the environment, food, cosmetics, or some medications . For example, some perfumes, preservatives, and metals (such as nickel) can cause it.
- You already have eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) .
- Habits such as frequent lip licking, lip biting, or lip sucking . These things can cause the lips to lose their natural moisture, become dry, and develop eczema.
- Contact dermatitis is caused by irritants found in some lipsticks, lip balms, toothpastes, or mouthwashes .
- Lips lose hydration and elasticity with age or exposure to extremely hot, dry weather conditions.
Imagine you bought a new lipstick, and after a few days of using it, your lips started to turn red and itchy. If that's the case, you might be allergic to something in that lipstick.
What are the symptoms of eczema on the lips?
Lip eczema can affect your upper lip, lower lip, or both lips. Sometimes it can also spread to the skin around your lips. Very rarely, it can affect the mucous membrane inside your mouth. Some people may have no symptoms for weeks or months, and then suddenly develop symptoms and the condition gets worse. This is called a "flare-up."
These are the commonly seen symptoms:
- Cracked or deep fissured lips.
- Lips feeling excessively dry .
- Itchy . Sometimes the itching can be unbearable.
- Lips turning red .
- Scaly skin on the surface of the lips.
- Feeling pain or soreness .
If you have one or more of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for advice.
How do doctors accurately diagnose this condition?
When you see a doctor, the first thing he or she will do is examine your lips. They will also check for any other skin conditions or allergies. The doctor will ask about your complete health history , especially about any allergies you have had in the past. If anyone in your family has a history of allergic skin conditions such as ``Atopic Dermatitis``, don't forget to tell the doctor about it too.
Sometimes, the doctor may also perform tests like these to confirm the condition of eczema on the lips:
- Allergy Testing : These tests can help you find out exactly what you are allergic to. You can use a ``Skin Patch Test'' or ``Skin Prick Test'' for this. In a ``Skin Patch Test'', you apply a small amount of the suspected allergen to your skin and observe it for a few days.
- Blood or urine tests : These help confirm whether there is a viral or bacterial infection.
What are the treatments for eczema on the lips?
If you have eczema on your lips, the first thing you need to do is stop licking, chewing, or sucking your lips. You should also avoid using things like lip balms and lipsticks that you think are bad for you.
The doctor may recommend treatments such as:
- Petroleum Jelly (e.g. Vaseline) or an unscented, hypoallergenic moisturizer : These help heal and moisturize dry, chapped lips.
- Steroid Ointment : These are very useful in reducing inflammation and swelling in the lips. However, these should only be used for a limited period of time, as directed by a doctor.
Very rarely, for people with severe cases, the doctor may prescribe oral steroids or a special cream that controls the overactivity of the immune system.
Where can I protect myself from this situation as much as possible?
If you have atopic dermatitis elsewhere on your body, you may not be able to completely prevent eczema on your lips. However, the following things can help reduce your risk:
- Avoid using lipsticks, lip balms, or other cosmetics that contain fragrances or dyes. Choose products that are as simple and contain as few ingredients as possible.
- Reduce alcohol consumption.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day. This is very important to keep your body and lips hydrated.
- Always keep your lips moisturized by applying something like petroleum jelly. Be careful of this especially in dry weather and when staying in AC rooms.
- Give up the habits of licking your lips, sucking your tongue, chewing your tongue, and biting your nails.
- Choose mouthwashes and toothpastes that do not contain alcohol or harsh antiseptics.
- Avoid eating very salty or spicy foods. These can sometimes increase inflammation in the lips.
Will this situation improve? What will the future hold?
In fact, lip eczema, like atopic dermatitis, is often chronic . This means that it may flare up from time to time rather than completely disappear. Your lips may be fine for a while, and then flare up again.
However, for most children, this condition gradually decreases as they grow older . However, with proper treatment and safety measures, this condition can be well controlled.
When should you see a doctor?
Usually, minor dryness or cracking of the lips will heal in a few days. However, in these cases, you should definitely see a doctor:
- If the lip sores are very severe, bleeding, open sores, or do not heal despite treatment.
- If you develop hives (Urticaria) and swelling (Angioedema) around the face, lips, or eyes.
Very important: If you or someone else experiences difficulty breathing (Dyspnea) or difficulty swallowing , it could be a sign of a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction called Anaphylaxis . In such a case , call 911 immediately for an ambulance or go to the nearest hospital.
Finally, a few things to remember
Lip eczema is a skin condition that can cause your lips to become red, dry, and cracked. If your lip condition doesn't improve within a few days, see a doctor. They can also check for other conditions or infections. This condition can usually be treated with lip balms, moisturizers, or steroids. Never apply any medications you don't know to your lips. Always follow your doctor's instructions.
` Eczema of the lips, eczematous cheilitis, chapped lips, skin diseases, allergies, dermatological diseases, dry lips
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