Crusty sore on my lip won’t go away. Appointment is impossible to get right now. What is this?

 

Crusty Lip Sores That Don’t Heal: What You Need to Know

Noticing a persistent crusty sore on your lip can be alarming, especially when getting a doctor’s appointment quickly isn’t possible. While most lip sores are harmless, some can be signs of infections or other conditions that may need attention.

Here’s what you should know about why a lip sore might not heal and what you can do at home while waiting to see a healthcare professional.

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Common Causes of Crusty Lip Sores

1. Cold Sores (Herpes Simplex Virus)

• Symptoms: Small blisters that crust over, tingling or burning before the sore appears.

• Duration: Typically 7–14 days for a flare-up, but recurrent sores are common.

• Notes: Cold sores are contagious and can appear repeatedly in the same spot.

2. Chapped or Cracked Lips

• Symptoms: Dry, flaky skin that may crack and crust, especially in cold or dry weather.

• Duration: Can persist if lips are constantly dry or irritated.

• Notes: Moisturizing with petroleum jelly or lip balm helps, but severe cracks may need extra care.

3. Angular Cheilitis

• Symptoms: Crusty, painful sores at the corners of the mouth.

• Causes: Often caused by fungal or bacterial infections, vitamin deficiencies, or saliva buildup.

• Notes: Treatment may require antifungal or antibacterial creams.

4. Trauma or Injury

• Biting, picking, or accidentally burning the lip can create a sore that crusts as it heals.

5. Less Common Causes

• Actinic cheilitis (sun damage, usually in older adults)

• Lip cancer (rare, usually presents as a persistent sore that doesn’t heal, may bleed, or change in appearance)

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Home Care While Waiting for Medical Advice

While a doctor’s appointment is ideal, you can try the following measures:

1. Keep the Area Clean and Moisturized

   • Gently wash with lukewarm water.

   • Apply a thin layer of Vaseline or lip balm to prevent cracking.

2. Avoid Picking or Scratching

   • Touching the sore can delay healing and increase infection risk.

3. Pain Relief

   • Over-the-counter pain relievers (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen) can reduce discomfort.

   • Cold compresses may also help.

4. Avoid Irritants

   • Limit spicy, acidic, or salty foods that can aggravate the sore.

5. Monitor for Warning Signs

   • Seek urgent medical attention if you notice rapid growth, persistent bleeding, pus, spreading redness, fever, or pain that worsens.

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When to See a Doctor Immediately

Even if appointments are difficult, contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible if:

• The sore lasts more than two weeks without improvement

• There are multiple recurring sores

• You notice unusual color changes, lumps, or ulcers

• Pain or swelling is severe

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Bottom Line

Most crusty lip sores are harmless and treatable, often caused by cold sores, dryness, or minor infections. However, persistent sores that don’t heal should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out more serious conditions.

Meanwhile, gentle care, moisture, and avoiding irritants can help the sore stay clean and reduce discomfort.