What should you know about a sore and swollen lip?

Tenderness after biting, chapping, dental work, or contact with a new product can point to local irritation. A grouped blister, crust, warmth, or spreading redness may suggest an infection or inflamed skin. Angioedema is deeper swelling that can affect the lips, sometimes with hives or swelling elsewhere; read more about [Angioedema](/conditions/angioedema/). The swelling itself does not identify one cause, and a clinician may need to examine the lip and mouth.

Stop any recently introduced lip balm, cosmetic, toothpaste, food, or medicine until the cause is clearer. Rinse gently with water, avoid picking or squeezing the area, and use a cool damp compress for short periods. Keep the lip protected from licking and friction. Note when the swelling began, what touched or entered your mouth beforehand, and whether it is worsening. Do not apply a steroid or antibiotic product inside the mouth unless a clinician has advised it.

Seek emergency help immediately for trouble breathing, throat or tongue swelling, faintness, confusion, or difficulty swallowing. Arrange prompt medical assessment if swelling is rapidly increasing, the pain is severe, fever develops, pus appears, or the redness spreads. A persistent sore, a recurring episode, or a lip change that does not settle also deserves a clinician’s review.

Could this be an allergic-type swelling, infection, or contact irritation? Which products or medicines should I avoid? What symptoms would mean I need urgent help if this happens again?