Red bumps and swollen lip.

I recently started getting red bumps on my stomach and lower back. they come and go but recently started getting worse. My upper lip also got really swollen. and I took allergy medicine and it went away. 2 days later my bottom lip got swollen. are these symptoms of allergies? ive never been allergic to anything so i dont know what to expect. Im 20 male.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Unexplained swelling of the lips, ears etc without any predisposing disease is frequently caused by allergies. An allergic reaction can occur suddenly, even in a person with no previous history of allergy. This swelling is called angioedema.

Diagnosis is by clinical examination and complete blood tests, electrolytes and renal function tests. Treatment is by antihistaminics like Benadryl or Zyrtec and steroids. If the symptoms persist then please get it evaluated from a physician. I hope it helps. Take care and regards.