- By Bornika Das
- Tue, 19 Aug 2025 01:47 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Lip Health Warning Signs: Apart from just framing the face, lips serve as a visible indicator of overall health. Healthy lips generally appear to be soft, smooth and pink, reflecting proper hydration and nutrition. However, the change in their colour, texture or moisture levels signals potential health concerns, ranging from nutritional deficiencies and dehydration to infections or systemic conditions. Several studies and reputable health sources have suggested that lips often reveal early warning signs of health issues, making them a valuable tool to monitor well-being. Moreover, lip health has also been linked to cardiovascular function, with certain symptoms reflecting underlying problems with blood flow, circulation or heart health.
How Lips Indicate Internal Health Problems?
As per the health organisations, the lips, like skin and nails, serve as an indicator of the body's internal state. Changes in the appearance of the lips, such as paleness, dryness, swelling, or unusual pigmentation, may reflect issues with circulation, hydration, nutrient levels or immune function. These lip health signs may reveal nutritional deficiencies, infections, or systemic conditions.
However, by observing the lips, maintaining hydration, practising good hygiene and supporting overall health through nutrition, people can protect both their lips as well as their overall well-being. According to the study named ‘Survey Defining Lip Health—Dermatology and Health Care Providers' Perspectives’ published by the National Library of Medicine, it emphasises that lip colour and texture are closely linked to cardiovascular, respiratory and nutritional health. Here are the lip health signs that signal heart problems.
Common Warning Signs That Lips Show About Health
Pale Or Bluish Lips
Pale or bluish lips may indicate low oxygen levels in the blood, potentially linked to anaemia, respiratory problems, or poor circulation. Reportedly, persistent paleness can signal an underlying deficiency in red blood cells or cardiovascular issues.
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Dry And Chapped Lips
Dry, cracked or chapped lips are common in cold or dry climates. However, constant dryness of the lips suggests dehydration, vitamin deficiencies (especially B vitamins) or malnutrition. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) suggests that lips are highly sensitive to hydration and nutrient levels; thus, ongoing dryness should be investigated.
Swollen Lips
Lip swelling can happen due to allergic reactions, infections or inflammatory conditions. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) highlight that sudden or recurrent swelling may require medical attention to rule out conditions like angioedema or allergic responses.
Lip Health Indicate Health Issues (Image Credits: Canva)
Sores Or Lesions
Sores, blisters or lesions are mainly a result of viral infections such as cold sores (herpes simplex virus) or canker sores. Studies indicate that recurrent lesions can affect quality of life and may signal immune system weakness or chronic stress.
Cracks At The Corners Of The Mouth
Cracks or splits at the corners of the lips are a condition called angular cheilitis, linked to iron or B-vitamin deficiencies or fungal infections. This condition can be prevented by improving nutrition and maintaining lip hygiene.
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Discolouration Or Unusual Pigmentation
Dark spots or unusual pigmentation indicate hormonal imbalances, vitamin deficiencies or reactions to medications. Research shows that lip discolouration can sometimes signal underlying systemic issues, making observation important for early detection.