Suggest Treatment For A Painful Fluid Filled Blister On The Lip

Posted on Tue, 30 Jan 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 30 Jan 2018 Answered on

Wed, 8 Aug 2018 Last reviewed on

Question : My wife had fluid filled blister on her lip
Her lips are usually dry.

Blister is painful. Might be a cold sore. Please suggest treatment. I am attaching a photo for reference.

And also let us know if any diagnoses is required.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Either a canker sore or a cold sore

Detailed Answer:
Hello. Thank you.
I am Dr kakkar (Dermatologist and Venereologist). I have noted your concern and I have viewed the image.
This could either be a Canker sore or it could be a Cold sore (HSV type 1 infection)
I suggest you to use a topical antiseptic e.g chlorhexidine gluconate gel (hexidine gel), twice daily for a week.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Kakkar (44 minutes later)

Doctor

Thank you for the reply. I will start using the gel. Don't I need any oral medication.
HSV -1 being contagious do I need any precautions to be taken.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Regarding lip sore

Detailed Answer:
Hi.

This is most like a canker sore.
You may apply Metronidazole gel (Metrogyl DG gel) alternating with chlorhexidine gel, every 2-3 hours. No need for oral treatment for a single canker sore.
Avoid direct/close contact like kissing. No other precautions.
You may take a blood test for HSV type 1 & 2, IgG and IgM after 4-6 weeks. That would make it clear whether it is a cold sore or just a canker sore.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng