Advice on lip herpes

If the lip suddenly burns and itches, those affected usually first ask the pharmacist for advice and seek quick help. Foreign-language customers are grateful if they can communicate in English and receive advice.

Travelling by plane across several time zones does not only disturb the sleep rhythm but it also weakens the immune system. Likewise, intensive ultraviolet radiation can affect the immune system, for example during a skiing holiday.

People who contracted a herpes simplex virus may then show the first signs of a new virus outbreak on their lip: itchiness, a tingling sensation and a feeling of tightness. Before a remedy can be recommended, pharmacy technicians or pharmacists need to ask a few questions.

Information and questions

• Please briefly describe the ­symptoms.
• Are you familiar with these ­symptoms from earlier occasions?
• Since when have you had these complaints?
• Do you prefer a cream or rather a patch?
• You can choose from three alterna­tives: a medicine containing a chemical substance, a preparation containing Melissa extract or zinc salt.
• It is important to start the treatment if possible at the first signs of lip herpes.
• Should pus occur in the area of the blisters, please consult a doctor.
• If the symptoms do not recede ­within seven days, please let a doctor find the cause.

Additional information

• Apply the ointment preferably with a cotton swab and wash your hands immediately afterwards.
• Avoid any causes that triggered your lip herpes in the past.
• Protect your lips from intensive UV rays, best by using a sun blocker.
• Avoid anything that may weaken your immune system.
• Do not use the preparation for longer than ten days.
• The herpes virus is very infectious. The fluid inside the blisters contains numerous viruses, which can be passed on for example by kissing.
• Do not share any glasses or cutlery with someone else to avoid passing on the herpes to that person.
• Do not touch blisters that have burst open as this spot may easily become inflamed.
• If the skin around the edges of the blisters feels very tight, apply some oily ointment.