Published on: 3/17/2025
Lip swelling may occur due to allergies, infections, or other less common causes. It is important to watch for other symptoms and seek help if the swelling worsens or you have trouble breathing.
Lip swelling that appears suddenly can happen for a few reasons. One common cause is an allergic reaction. This might occur if your body reacts to something like foods, medications, bug or animal bites, or even a new product you used (such as a soap or lotion). When this happens, your immune system reacts quickly, causing the lips to swell. Infections, such as an abscess, can also cause lip swelling. These infections often start from a small cut or dental problem, with the swelling occurring as part of the body's natural response to fight off bacteria. In some cases, people experience recurrent lip swelling for unclear reasons. If you experience symptoms like difficulty breathing or if the swelling spreads rapidly, it is important to seek medical care right away for proper evaluation and treatment.
(References)
Mahmoud A, Bathobakae L, Giannetti R, Naaman G, Affortunato J. Acute Lower Lip Swelling: A Mere Anaphylactic Reaction or a Rare Abscess Location? Cureus. 2023 Nov 17;15(11):e48971. doi: 10.7759/cureus.48971. PMID: 38106723; PMCID: PMC10725739.
Lakhani S, Barnett S, Tappuni AR, Rajakulasingam RK. Recurrent lip swelling: a diagnostic challenge. BMJ Case Rep. 2014 Aug 21;2014:bcr2013203018. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2013-203018. PMID: 25188924; PMCID: PMC4154022.
Krishnan B, Basu D, Daniel JM. A discrete swelling of the upper lip: a diagnostic and clinical stepladder. J Maxillofac Oral Surg. 2014 Sep;13(3):300-4. doi: 10.1007/s12663-013-0531-6. Epub 2013 May 5. PMID: 25018604; PMCID: PMC4082540.
We would love to help them too.
For First Time Users
We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.
Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor’s Note is a service for informational purposes, and the provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical practice. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.