Discovering a bump on your lip can be concerning, and it’s natural to wonder, “Why Do I Have A Bump On My Lip?” One common reason for such bumps, especially on the inner lip, is a mucocele, also known as a mucous cyst. These benign lesions are frequently found in the mouth and are often related to minor trauma or habits.
What is a Mucocele?
A mucocele is a small, fluid-filled sac that develops when a salivary gland duct is blocked or damaged. Saliva, which is normally released into your mouth through these ducts, gets trapped and pools under the surface, creating a cyst-like bump. Mucoceles are not cancerous and are generally harmless, but they can be bothersome and cause concern. They are a common occurrence, particularly among children and young adults. Often, a history of lip biting or injury to the area precedes their appearance.
Signs and Symptoms of a Mucocele
Mucoceles are typically found on the lower lip or the inner lining of the cheek because these areas are prone to accidental trauma, such as biting. However, they can appear anywhere inside the mouth where minor salivary glands are present.
A mucocele usually presents as:
- A Single Bump: It’s typically solitary, appearing as a papule (a small, solid bump) or a nodule (a larger, raised bump with a smooth surface).
- Color: Mucoceles can be the same color as the surrounding oral mucosa (skin-like lining of the mouth) or have a slightly bluish, translucent hue due to the fluid within.
- Size: They vary in size, ranging from as small as 1 millimeter to over a centimeter in diameter.
- Texture: Mucoceles are soft to the touch and generally painless. However, they can be sensitive if irritated.
- Recurrence: Mucoceles can reappear, especially if the habit or trauma that initially caused them continues, such as repeated lip or cheek biting.
Self-Care and What to Expect
The good news is that most mucoceles are self-limiting and will resolve on their own without intervention. In many cases, a mucocele will disappear within 3 to 6 weeks as the body naturally reabsorbs the trapped fluid.
To encourage healing and prevent recurrence, consider these self-care guidelines:
- Avoid Irritation: Refrain from chewing, picking, or sucking on the lip or cheek where the mucocele is located.
- Break Oral Habits: If lip biting or cheek sucking is a habit, consciously try to stop these behaviors to prevent new mucoceles from forming and allow existing ones to heal.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most mucoceles are harmless and resolve on their own, it’s important to know when to seek professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider if the mucocele:
- Persists for More Than 6 Weeks: If the bump doesn’t disappear within this timeframe, it’s advisable to get it checked.
- Increases in Size: A growing mucocele may require evaluation.
- Bleeds: Bleeding from the mucocele is not typical and should be assessed.
- Interferes with Function: If the bump is in a location that makes talking or chewing difficult or uncomfortable, seek medical help.
- Becomes Painful: While usually painless, if the mucocele becomes painful or significantly tender, it warrants medical attention.
Medical Treatments for Mucoceles
In cases where a mucocele is persistent, bothersome, or needs to be diagnosed definitively, a medical professional may recommend treatment.
- Diagnosis: If there’s uncertainty about whether the bump is a mucocele, the doctor might perform a biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken for microscopic examination.
- Minor Surgery: Surgical removal of the mucocele is a common and effective treatment. This is a minor procedure typically done under local anesthesia.
- Drainage: In some instances, a procedure to drain the fluid from the mucocele may be performed. However, removal is often preferred to prevent recurrence.
By understanding what a mucocele is, recognizing its symptoms, and knowing when to seek medical help, you can effectively manage lip bumps and ensure your oral health.
References
Jauch EC, Hall G, Knoop KJ. Mucocele. In: Knoop KJ, Stack LB, Storrow AB, Thurman R, eds. The Atlas of Emergency Medicine. 5th ed. McGraw-Hill; 2020.
Saavedra AP, Roh EK, Mikailov A. Disorders of the mouth. In: Kang S, Amagai M, Bruckner AL, Enk AH, Margolis DJ, McMichael AJ, Orringer JS, eds. Fitzpatrick’s Dermatology. 9th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Education; 2019.
Koutlas IG. Diseases of the oral cavity. In: Soutor C, Hordinsky MK, eds. Clinical Dermatology. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 2013.
