27 Dec Why Do I Always Have Chapped Lips?

Chapped lips or cracked lips usually happen when the weather is dry or when your body needs hydration.  

Other factors that can cause chapped lips are vitamin deficiencies, excessive licking of the lips, and taking certain medications such as vitamin A, retinoids, lithium, and chemotherapy drugs.  

Symptoms of chapped lips include:  

• Dryness  
• Flaking  
• Scales  
• Sores  
• Swelling  
• Cracks   
• Bleeding  

It is best to know the cause behind chapped lips to receive a more appropriate treatment that can target it effectively as there are health conditions that cause chapped lips.  

When To See My Doctor  

You should see your doctor once you feel like having chapped lips is a symptom of an underlying condition that needs to be looked at by professionals.  

Some of the medical conditions that have a symptom of chapped lips include:  

• Cheilitis: this condition is often associated with infections and inflammatory diseases such as Crohn’s disease. A dermatologist can determine whether your severely chapped lips are caused by other external factors or whether you have cheilitis.   

If you have cheilitis, your lips may look have:  

• A lumpy texture  
• A dark pink or red in color  
• Oral ulcers  

• White plaques on the surface  

People who have orthodontic braces, wear dentures, or use pacifiers are susceptible to getting this condition.   

• Dehydration and malnutrition: dehydration and malnutrition can manifest as dry lips. In severe cases, a person who suffers from dehydration can also experience low blood pressure, fever, rapid breathing, and quick heartbeats.  

Meanwhile, those suffering from malnutrition can experience symptoms such as muscle weakness, decaying teeth, bloated stomach, and fragile bones.  

Chapped Lips Prevention   

You can prevent getting chapped lips by keeping your body hydrated and your lips smooth.  

Other tips include:  

• Avoiding habitual licking of your lips  
• Apply a lip balm if they start feeling itchy or dry  
• Skip spicy foods as they can irritate the lips, especially if you have sensitive skin.  
• Keep hydrated  

If you think having chapped lips is more than just the effects of the weather on you, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor.