Herpes inside lip

Herpes simplex virus can reactivate in nerve-connected skin or mucosa, producing tingling followed by small fluid-filled lesions that break into shallow sores. A sore on the inner lip may instead be a traumatic ulcer, aphthous ulcer, burn, or another condition.

A clinician examines the pattern, location, stage, recurrence, and associated symptoms, and may swab a fresh lesion when the diagnosis needs confirmation. They also check for dental trauma, immune problems, medicines, and signs of a wider infection.

Do not pick or squeeze the lesion, wash hands after touching the mouth, avoid sharing utensils or lip products, and avoid close oral contact while an active lesion is present. Keep the area clean and discuss antiviral treatment early with a medical clinician when herpes is suspected.

Seek care for a first severe episode, eye symptoms, extensive lesions, dehydration, high fever, immune suppression, pregnancy concerns, or a sore that does not heal. A dental or medical review is also needed for repeated or atypical lesions.

Ask whether the location and appearance fit herpes or another mouth sore, whether a swab is useful, and whether antiviral treatment or medical review is indicated.