I am a 21-yr-old female in college. Six or seven months ago I started to get a very painful rash on my lips. It begins as sore tiny bumps. After a day the bumps become very raw, and with in the next few days they become what I would describe as scaly or scabby. Often, the skin around my lips itches, but no rash anywhere but my lips. During the worst out breaks the little bumps ooze a clear fluid. This rash is quite painful, causing discomfort when talking and pain when eating. Within a week to two weeks the whole ordeal is entirely cleared up.
I cannot predict quite when this rash will occur, and the severity of the rash seems to vary with each out break, but the last few outbreaks have been increasingly painful. They are becoming a monthly occurance.
I have seen a family doctor a few months ago, who told me it was cold sores, but I disagree. The cream he prescribed did nothing but cause a burning sensation. I would like to see a dermatologist, but I cannot predict these outbreaks, and I do not have money to waste on a pointless trip to the doctor when there is no rash. I have heard suggestions about everything from fungus to allergies. I have dumped all my chapsticks for old ones and have not been able to pin down any notable changes in my diet, routine, or environment that is consistent with the rash occurring.
I am looking for advice. Has anyone heard of a case like this? Any suggestions or remedies? What is the best way to go about seeking medical help for this?