What should you know about herpetic cheilitis?

The episode may begin with tingling, itching, burning, or tightness on the lip. Small blisters can then form, break, and crust. The surrounding skin may feel sore, and eating or speaking can irritate it. Other causes of inflamed lips include dryness, contact reactions, and some skin conditions, so a clinician may need to check the pattern and history.

Herpes can spread from an active lip lesion through close contact. Touching the sore and then touching an eye or another person can transfer infection.

Keep the lips gently clean, avoid picking the crust, and wash hands after touching the area. Do not kiss, have oral contact, or share drinks, cutlery, lip balm, cosmetics, towels, or toothbrushes while an active sore is present. Use a bland protective moisturiser if a clinician says it is suitable; avoid fragranced or stinging products.

Arrange assessment early in an episode because a clinician may consider antiviral treatment. Do not use a steroid cream on a suspected infection unless it has been specifically recommended.

Seek urgent help for eye pain, eye redness, vision change, rapidly spreading sores, severe swelling, trouble swallowing or breathing, dehydration, or severe illness. Contact a clinician promptly if episodes recur often, involve a young infant, occur during pregnancy, or happen with reduced immunity.

Ask whether the lip changes fit herpetic cheilitis, whether a swab is needed, whether an antiviral should be started, what moisturiser is appropriate, and when kissing or oral contact can safely resume. Mention eye symptoms and any previous episodes.