COVID-19, a respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, can lead to a variety of symptoms, and some individuals report developing lip sores during or after their infection. While the virus does not directly cause lip sores in the same way it impacts the respiratory system, the physiological stress of the illness can create conditions that promote their development. This connection involves how the body responds to infection, rather than direct viral action on the lips.
Understanding the Connection
The body’s immune response to a viral infection, such as SARS-CoV-2, can put stress on the entire system. This heightened immune activity can reactivate dormant viruses like herpes simplex virus (HSV), responsible for cold sores. Immune dysregulation, psychological stress, and fever associated with COVID-19 can activate these latent viruses.
Fever, a common symptom of COVID-19, can also lead to dehydration and dry, chapped lips, creating an environment conducive to sore development. Dry skin on the lips can crack and become painful, potentially progressing into sores. Physical and emotional stress during illness can also trigger lip sores. Some medications used to treat COVID-19 symptoms or the infection itself, such as certain antivirals, might also have oral side effects, including the potential for mouth sores.
Common Types of Lip Sores
Cold sores, also known as herpes labialis or fever blisters, are small, fluid-filled blisters that typically form around the mouth. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), which can lie dormant in nerve cells and reactivate due to triggers like stress, fever, or a weakened immune system. These blisters often crust over and typically heal within two to three weeks.
Canker sores, medically termed aphthous ulcers, are small, painful ulcers appearing inside the mouth, often on the inner surfaces of the lips, cheeks, or tongue. Unlike cold sores, they are not contagious and are characterized by a white or yellow center with a red border. Triggers for canker sores can include stress, minor injury to the mouth, or certain foods, with some individuals experiencing them due to immune system changes.
Angular cheilitis presents as cracking and inflammation at the corners of the mouth. This condition can stem from persistent dryness, often exacerbated by saliva accumulation, or may involve fungal or bacterial infections. Nutritional deficiencies or a compromised immune system can also contribute to its development. Severely chapped or dry lips, while not strictly a “sore,” can lead to cracking and peeling that progresses into painful open areas, especially when fever or dehydration is present.
Managing Lip Sores and When to Seek Medical Attention
Managing lip sores involves home care and over-the-counter remedies to alleviate discomfort and support healing. Keeping the lips moisturized with balms and avoiding picking at the sores can help prevent further irritation and promote recovery. Over-the-counter options like topical creams containing antivirals for cold sores or protective balms can be beneficial. Maintaining good hydration and a balanced diet, particularly during illness, also supports the body’s healing processes.
It is important to seek medical attention for lip sores under specific circumstances:
If sores are severe, cause significant pain, or interfere with eating and drinking.
If they do not show signs of healing within one to two weeks, if they are spreading or worsening.
If there are signs of infection such as pus, increased redness, or fever.
If you have a compromised immune system.
If the type or cause of the sore is uncertain.