lips

I have swollen lips. The swelling is especially in my lower lip. It started in the early morning of a cold day two years ago. I saw my lips were dry and I rubbed until the dry skin come off. After 30 minutes  I felt like my lower lip pop out since then I have this swollen and irregular lips.  because of this I can't talk properly. I tried all the chap sticks and lip balms but nothing helped. I also tried topical steroids(Elidel, Desonide, etc.) but no improvement. I saw many doctors: dermatologists and a oral specialist. One of those doctors did a biopsy and found nothing other than inflammation. They were not able figure out the exact problem and cure. My biggest problem for me is I can't talk properly since my lower lip is puffy and the skin is not flexible enough for talking. Please advise me what are my options.

I appreciate the help.

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Well, without a detailed clinical evaluation it would be difficult o determine the cause of your symptoms. Swollen lips could result from infections, inflammations, allergies, a few autoimmune conditions, growths/ masses etc. Since the biopsy was negative for malignant cells/ granulomas; this is likely to be due to chronic inflammatory causes. It would be best to have this evaluated by an internist or a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!

[rssp1210]

Thanks for taking time to respond to me! One of the doctors I saw told me to try compression therapy. I have been doing that last couple of days with a paper clipper. Now my outward lower lip is kind of thickened but feels little better and I cannot do that when I am out of my home. Please let me know is this a good idea and is there anything else I can apply on my lips along with compression.

[rssp1210]

What should I do to make sure this my problem is not related to any nerve problem?  I took Gabapentin for few weeks and It didn't help me much. I feel like my lips are like thick rubber. Is it related to any nerve problem. Please let me know.

I appreciate your help!