Mouth Issues at 19 Years Old
At the age of 19, with a height of 5 feet 11 inches, I no longer smoke and I'm not on any medications. Approximately two weeks ago, I began experiencing significant dryness and discomfort in my lips. To address this, I tried using Aquaphor and a lip therapy version of Vaseline. There are moments when my lips itch or develop cracks at the corners; additionally, the area beneath my lower lip on the right side has an unusual feeling. After a week, I noticed some improvement, but following a kiss with my girlfriend, my condition worsened once more. Currently, I have switched to applying Neosporin. I've shared a picture in the comments for reference.
Answers (1)
8/1/2025, 11:40:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re dealing with persistent dryness and discomfort in your lips, along with some cracks and unusual sensations. This can be frustrating, especially at a young age. The symptoms you describe could indicate causes ranging from simple dryness to potential infections or irritations. Let's address your concerns step by step.
Main Points:
- Your symptoms may be due to dryness, possible infections, or irritants.
- You have seen some improvement with ointments, but there are recurring issues.
Explanation:
Dry lips can be caused by several factors, including:
- Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can lead to dry skin and lips.
- Environmental factors: Cold weather or low humidity can worsen dryness.
- Irritants: Ingredients in lip products or even saliva can cause irritation.
- Infections: Sometimes, small cracks can lead to infections, particularly if you have kissed someone and germs are transmitted.
While using Neosporin can help with minor infections, it's important to focus on hydration and protecting the skin.
Next Steps:
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Hydration: Ensure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This helps keep your skin and lips well-hydrated.
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Moisturizing: Continue to use a good lip balm, preferably one with natural ingredients (like beeswax or shea butter) without potential irritants like fragrances. Apply it several times a day and before sleeping.
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Avoid Irritants: Try to avoid licking your lips, as saliva can worsen dryness. Also, consider whether any recent food or products could be irritating your lips.
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Mild Soap: If your symptoms persist, consider reducing the use of any facial scrubs or soaps around your mouth that might irritate sensitive skin.
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Monitoring: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If the area under your lip continues to feel unusual or if new symptoms arise (like swelling or severe pain), it may be a sign to take further action.
If the symptoms do not improve within a week or worsen, seeking advice from a healthcare professional may be prudent for a more thorough examination. It's important to take care of your skin, and I’m here to support you through this! Let me know if you need further assistance or specific product recommendations.
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