chronic chapped lips

Have had sore red lips, itchy and hot at times. Also little bumps above my lips and and some on my chin. Have had an on going battle for a few months. Doctor gave me something for cold sores but did tell him haven't seen a cold sore appear. Work outside in the summer and use lip balms for protection and through the winter. Have quit using them , thinking they are the problem. Live in  a fairly dry climate also.Going back to the doctor to try to get an appt with a dermatologist. Really frustrated, any suggestions???  Read 1 of the posts, sounded somewhat the same as my problem. Is there something that can be used?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Firstly, It can be due to vitamin B deficiency. Take some vitamin B complex for some days and see if your symptoms improve.
Secondly, it can be due to atopic dermatitis or eczema("Atopic" refers to a group of diseases where there is often an inherited tendency to develop other allergic conditions, such as asthma and hay fever). Cheilitis(Inflammation of the skin on and around the lips)is often seen in atopic dermatitis. Diagnosed by blood test like RAST. Treatment is by topical steroids or oral therapy of corticosteroids in severe cases. Topical creams like tacrolimus ointment and pimecrolimus cream are also useful but are available under prescription.

Please consult an allergist and get this possibility evaluated.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.