Understanding White Bumps on Lips: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help
White bumps on the lips can be a mystery, but understanding their causes and treatments can put your mind at ease. While some are harmless and will disappear on their own, others may require medical attention. Let’s dive into the world of milia, Fordyce spots, herpes simplex, oral thrush, and oral cancer to uncover the truth.
What Causes White Bumps on Lips?
Two common culprits behind white bumps on lips are milia and Fordyce spots. However, they can also be symptoms of underlying health conditions such as herpes simplex, oral thrush, or oral cancer.
Milia: The Small but Firm White Bumps
Milia occur when dead skin cells get trapped in the skin, resulting in small, firm white bumps. While they’re common in babies, adults can also experience them, especially on the lips.
Fordyce Spots: The Enlarged Oil Glands
Fordyce spots are enlarged sebaceous glands without a hair follicle, typically appearing as tiny white bumps on the inner portion of the lips. They’re extremely common, affecting up to 80% of adults at some point in their lives.
Herpes Simplex: The Cold Sore Outbreak
Oral herpes can trigger a cold sore outbreak on or around the lips, starting as small white bumps with a reddish border. The herpes simplex virus (HSV) can be passed through intimate contact or sharing personal items.
Oral Thrush: The Fungal Infection
Oral thrush, caused by the Candida albicans fungus, can lead to white lesions or bumps on the mouth, lips, tonsils, or gums. Factors like a weakened immune system, diabetes, and certain medications increase the risk.
Oral Cancer: A Serious Possibility
One possible symptom of oral cancer is a white bump with a raised or flat texture on or in the mouth or lips. Potential causes include alcohol use, tobacco use, sun exposure, and human papillomavirus (HPV).
When to See a Doctor
While white bumps on your lips or mouth are usually harmless, you should consult a healthcare professional if you experience symptoms like fever, sore throat, painful raised skin, swollen neck or jaw, bleeding or pus-filled bumps, trouble swallowing or chewing, or a foul taste or odor in your mouth.
Getting a Diagnosis
A healthcare professional can diagnose white bumps on your lips with a quick in-office visit, asking about your medical history and performing a physical examination. In some cases, a lab test or tissue sample may be necessary.
Treatment Options
Treating white bumps on your lips depends on the underlying cause. Fordyce spots rarely require treatment, while herpes simplex can be managed with antiviral medications. Oral thrush may require antifungal medications, topical antiseptics, and dietary supplements. Oral cancer treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and if cancer has spread to other areas.
Home Remedies for Milia
Milia can often be treated at home using over-the-counter (OTC) exfoliating products, facial peels, steam, and retinoids. However, it’s essential to be patient, as milia can be stubborn and may take several months to improve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Fordyce spots an STD? No, they’re not transmitted sexually or at all! How do you treat white bumps on lips? Treatment depends on the cause, but may include DIY methods like chemical exfoliation, steaming, physical exfoliants, gentle facial peels, and retinoid creams. Do white spots on lips go away? Yes and no – while many will disappear on their own or with home remedies, some may require medical attention.
The Bottom Line
White bumps on or around your lips can be caused by various factors, including harmless conditions like milia and Fordyce spots, as well as more serious health conditions like herpes simplex, oral thrush, or oral cancer. If you’re concerned about white bumps on your lips, consult a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action.
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