Have you been searching for answers on where blister on baby bottom lip could have come from?
Having a sick baby can be stressful to a parent and sometimes information on the symptoms are scanty.
You’re in the right place if you’re looking for a working solution that will restore the smile on your baby’s face.
Content:
- What is a Blister?
- Causes of Blisters on Baby’s Lips?
- Are Blisters Harmful to Your Baby?
- How Mouth Blisters Spread?
- Symptoms of Cold Sores
- Treatment
- When to See a Doctor?
- How To Prevent Blisters from Spreading?
What is a Blister?
Most of the blisters are usually caused by an infection or friction and you don’t necessarily need to see a doctor for treatment.
A blister is when a new layer of skin forms underneath the area that is affected with friction or infection.
It is usually in a tiny pocket of fluid and could also be caused by an infection, freezing, burning, and even chemical exposure. The blisters are filled with serum, plasma or clear fluid.
Causes of Blister on Baby Bottom Lip?
A mouth sore or blister can affect people at one point in their existence. They are sometimes referred to cold sores but usually don’t have anything to do with the cold.
It is usually caused by a herpes simplex virus which might manifest itself in different forms depending on the baby’s age. It is also common among adults and it is estimated that 7 out of 10 carry it.
Are Blisters Harmful to Your Baby?
This will be dependent on your baby’s age. They can be harmful particularly to newborns who have a weak immune system.
In very rare occasions, a baby who is less than 4 weeks old may be at risk of developing neonatal herpes which is a serious condition that comes as a result of herpes simplex virus.
Most newborns with neonatal herpes develop it during birth if their mother has an outbreak of genital herpes.
It is not common for babies to get neonatal herpes through cold sore unless they’re kissed by an infected person.
A parent should be aware of the risks involved when a baby has neonatal herpes as it can be a life-threatening condition.
The good news is that most newborns have antibodies acquired from their mothers which developed in the womb and can last up to 6 months after the child is born.
How Mouth Blisters Spread
Cold sores can spread easily and quickly. Infants should not be kissed on the lips as it could leave them vulnerable to cold sores.
It can only get worse if there is an outbreak of the disease as it can also be spread through saliva.
Babies tend to develop cold sores faster and it could happen in less than a week after being infected with the virus.
The virus can be dormant in the nerve cells which may make detection a little bit challenging. It then wakes and triggers reactions in the form of cold sores.
Symptoms of Cold Sores
You will experience your baby’s first cold sore in the inside of the mouth and also on the gums.
The cold sore infection inside the mouth is called gingivostomatitis. In any case, it is the condition, you will notice that your baby:
- Is lethargic
- Has swollen gland
- Has a fever
- Drooling and sore throat
You might see painful blisters in the baby’s mouth after the symptoms have manifested.
This blisters could turn into ulcers and you can easily identify it if the baby’s mouth is covered in gray or yellowish membrane.
If it gingivostomatitis, the flare-up can last up to 3 weeks. The blister is usually painful and may prevent your baby from eating or drinking and may make him/her drool or dribble.
There is a high likelihood that your baby is having a blister when they experience an outbreak without a pain or swelling in the mouth. The cold sores can take up to 14 days to clear.
How to Treat Blisters
Blisters can be treated using natural remedies. You don’t always have to see a doctor when your child gets lip blisters. You should seek medical attention if the child is less than six months old.
According to the National Institute of Health, there are some essential oils that can be used as an antiviral against HSV-1.
You should consult with a medical professional as some topical treatment can be irritating to the skin. You can dilute the essential oils with nut or vegetable oil.
Ice
This remedy should only be used on old babies. It helps in combating inflammation by slowing down blood to the affected area of the lips. It can also help in reducing pain as it numbs the affected place.
Start by first placing the ice in a clean cloth or towel. Place it on the affected area for between 5-15 minutes.
Never try direction application on the skin as it can make the injury worse.
Lemon balm
There was a 2002 study by the Natural Institute of Health which found out that Lemon Balm could completely kill herpes simplex. It also had an effect on how the virus attaches itself to the cells of the host.
You can use lemon balm by simply applying the ointment or cream to the affected area. You can apply it around 3 times a day and should continue using it on the baby even when the lips have healed.
L-lysine
The L-lysine comes in the form of an amino acid and helps in reducing the number of days the fever blisters take to heal.
There is a ton of research going towards the effectiveness of this remedy but people have been reporting improvements after using L-lysine.
You should follow the recommendation of the package when it comes to usage and application.
Zinc therapy
Zinc has been used since time immemorial to heal wounds. Topical zinc, in particular, can be very effective when it comes fever blisters.
In a 2001 study, it was found out that a medicated cream containing glycine and zinc oxide significantly shortened cold sore’s duration compared to placebo cream.
There have been recent studies which prove that zinc could prevent the herpes simplex from entering into the cells. Topical treatment will require that you apply the zinc cream at least three times a day.
Oregano oil
Oregano oil is known to hinder the growth of viruses in both animals and humans. One of these is viruses is herpes.
For relief, apply the diluted mixture on a cotton ball and apply it on the affected area. This should be done several times throughout the day for the treatment to be effective.
Licorice extract
This remedy has been gaining popularity as a treatment for cold sores in the last couple of years.
According to a 2014 research, there was a significant difference in efficacy when Licorice extract was used as a treatment for cold sores.
You can use a cotton swab to apply the diluted extract on your baby’s lips. You should consult with a doctor if you intend to give it orally to your child.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil has been found to have antiviral elements and can also be used as a remedy for cold sores. It was also found out that tea tree oil speeds up the process of healing.
You should use it topically by adding it to a cotton bowl and applying it to the affected surface. The treatment should continue until the skin is completely healed.
Witch hazel
Witch hazel may be used to reduce inflammation caused by the herpes virus. Witch hazel also acts as an antiviral. This helps in drying the affected area thus speeding up the healing process.
The Witch hazel can be applied directly to the affected area using a moist cotton ball. Treatment should be administered regularly until the cold sore is healed.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is readily available in most homes can be used as a treatment for those white blisters on baby’s lips.
Apple cider vinegar is very effective when it comes to fever blisters. Numerous studies have shown that apple cider vinegar contains antifungal and anti-infective properties.
You should, however, be careful when applying it to wounds because of its acidic properties.
Don’t let the baby consume it in large amounts because it may cause skin irritations. Use a cotton ball with dilutes ACV on the affected area and hold onto it for a few minutes.
When To See a Doctor?
As much as a cold sore can easily be managed, there are situations that may require that you seek medical attention.
This means that what you have tried is not working and a doctor is in a better position in finding a working solution.
When The Baby is Less Than 6 Months Old
A baby’s immune system might not have fully developed in 6 months. It is for this reason why you should see a doctor because they are able to come up with a professional solution.
The situation could be worse and simple home remedies might not be enough to cure the ailment.
Lasts More Than Two Weeks
That blister on baby bottom lip usually last around two weeks and anything beyond that should be a cause of concern.
If the symptoms persist in the third week even after trying the home remedy, the best solution would be to seek medical intervention.
There could be an underlying problem that has been overlooked and your baby’s health could be in danger.
Severe Symptoms
That blister on baby bottom lip can cause sleepless nights. The baby might not be able to eat or drink and that will call for medical intervention.
You should also seek medical attention if the blisters are painful and uncomfortable for your baby.
Frequent Outbreaks
Frequent outbreaks could also signal underlying medical issues. You should see a doctor if your baby is experiencing frequent blisters on the lips that won’t go away regardless of the remedies you’ve tried.
How To Prevent Blisters from Spreading
The crusty appearance of cold sores can cause discomfort for your child. One of the most effective ways of dealing with cold sores is prevention.
Cold sores can be contagious and you should avoid kissing or pecking your baby if you suspect you might be infected.
Antiviral medication can be administered but only when approved by your doctor. You should also discourage the baby from picking and scratching at the cold sores. This may encourage the virus to spread to other parts of the body.
Avoiding triggers: Make sure your child is sleeping well and eating a balanced diet. Ensuring they are also not stressed could help in mitigating the chances of a cold sore outbreak.
The baby should not rub the eyes if you suspect they could be having cold sores.
In case you’re infected, make sure you have washed your hands thoroughly before you get into contact with the infant.
The utensils and towels should be also be separated from the rest.
Conclusion
Having a baby with cold sores can be anguishing for a parent. The baby experiences discomfort and sometimes the blisters can be painful.
The blisters can be managed if detected early. Most home remedies can help in managing the blisters.
If the symptoms persist, you should see a doctor because there could be a bigger problem than the blisters.
A parent should take a proactive approach when it comes to managing cold sores. A healthy baby is a happy baby and cold sores should not be the reason for their unhappiness.
Additional information:
- Learn Why Your Baby Chewing Tongue (Should You Be Worried?)
- Baby Congested at Night: Causes and Treatment That Work
- Neonatal Herpes Simplex Virus Infections
- Antimicrobial Properties of Plant Essential Oils against Human Pathogens and Their Mode of Action
- Assessment of Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis L.) Hydrogels: Quality and Bioactivity in Skin Cells
- Lysine: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Dosage, and Warning
- A randomized clinical trial on the treatment of oral herpes with topical zinc oxide/glycine
- Licorice Root Extract May Provide Mouth Sore Relief
- Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil: a Review of Antimicrobial and Other Medicinal Properties
