Table of Contents
Warning signs lips give you about your health
Healthy lips should appear smooth, well hydrated and have a natural colour. The natural colour of healthy lips varies from person to person, but generally, they should have a pinkish hue, says Dr Arora. If they are not, you might want to check with a doctor. Here are some signs:
1. Pale lips
Pale or bluish lips may indicate anemia, poor blood circulation or respiratory issues, as they suggest a lack of oxygen in the blood.
2. Dry and chapped lips
When it gets cold, lips tend to get dry. But dryness can also be caused by dehydration or vitamin deficiencies apart from weather conditions. Persistent chapped lips might be a sign of malnutrition or skin conditions, says the expert.
3. Swollen lips
Swelling can be caused by allergies, infections or inflammatory conditions, such as angioedema, which may require medical attention.
4. Sores or lesions
Persistent sores or lesions on the lips could indicate infections like cold sores or canker sores.
5. Cracks at the corners of the mouth
The cracks can be a sign of a deficiency in vitamin B or iron, or might be a fungal infection called angular cheilitis.
6. Discolouration or unusual pigmentation
Dark spots or discolouration of lips might be a sign of a hormonal imbalance, vitamin deficiency or a reaction to certain medications, says Dr Arora.
