Is the lesion on my lip a pimple or herpes?

Question

Hello doctor,

I regularly have chapped and dry lips, and this spot was a cut on the lips, and I messed with it. I have attached a picture. Is this a pimple or could it be herpes? I have no other symptoms and a cluster of bumps did not form before this. It was red at first and pain-free, but now it hurts too bad to pop it

Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have seen the picture (attachment removed to protect patient identity), and I understand your worry.

This lesion seems to be infective in nature. Herpes which spreads sexually is herpes progenitalis, which occurs over genitals. Herpes occurring over lips is herpes simplex. I suggest applying Mupirocin ointment, twice a day over this for five days. Mostly, it will decrease in size without oral medication, but do send photos after five days.

Take care.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

This does not seem to be herpes. Follow the same treatment mentioned above and follow-up after five days. If it increases in size or oozes blood or pus or becomes painful, then visit a doctor at the earliest. Do not clean with any antiseptic solution.

Take care.