Lip blisters, caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1, are contagious and can be transmitted through close contact. They can be diagnosed by sight and usually heal on their own within a couple of weeks. Treatment involves topical and sometimes oral medications to relieve symptoms and discomfort. Those who experience severe and frequent presentations of fever blisters or those with compromised immunity should see a doctor.
The fluid-filled, inflamed bumps that form on the lips are known as blisters. Frequently referred to as fever blisters, blisters occur with exposure to the infectious herpes simplex virus type 1. Once exposed, the virus lies dormant in an individual’s system and can re-emerge at any time. The contagious virus can be transmitted through close interpersonal contact, such as sharing glasses or cutlery and kissing. Treatment for lip blisters generally involves giving topical and sometimes oral medications to relieve symptoms and discomfort.
Lip blisters form in the wake of exposure to a specific presentation of the herpes simplex virus. Similar to what causes genital herpes, herpes virus type 1 causes sores to form on the lips that fill with fluid, crack, and scab. After exposure to active infection, the site where the infection entered an individual’s system is where the blister will present. Fever blisters can then form repeatedly on or around the original area of infection.
Because of their telltale presentation, bladders can be diagnosed by sight. Unlike canker sores that form inside the oral cavity, fever blisters form outside the mouth, such as on the lips. Typically, these blisters do not require a doctor’s visit and heal on their own within a couple of weeks. Usually, only those who experience severe and frequent presentations of fever blisters or those who have compromised immunity are instructed to see a doctor.
Tingling or discomfort at the site of infection usually occurs a few days before the blisters form. The blisters themselves take on an inflamed and swollen appearance as they form. As the blisters fill with clear liquid, they become more sensitive to touch and can last for several days. Once the blisters rupture, they can seep an opaque, discolored liquid before collapsing. The infectious liquid inside fever blisters can cause a reinfection if not handled carefully, so people who handle the liquid directly should avoid touching their eyes or other delicate mucous membranes until they have washed their hands.
Lip blisters are a contagious condition and remain infectious until they have completely dried and healed. Individuals should avoid interpersonal situations where it might be possible to pass the infection to others, especially young children and those with compromised immunity who may have a more severe presentation if infected. Those who develop severe blisters should take proactive steps to carefully avoid spreading the infection to other parts of the body, especially the eyes which can cause blindness.
Over-the-counter (OTC) topical medications can be given to relieve symptoms and discomfort. In some cases, prescribed antiviral drugs may be given to ease the discomfort for those who experience frequent blistering episodes. Individuals are encouraged to recognize what triggers their fever blisters to recur and avoid those triggers if possible. Those who experience frequent blistering episodes may be prescribed a topical medication to shorten the duration of the presentation of infectious blisters.
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