The causes of angular cheilitis

Written by Wang Ji Zhong
Internal Medicine
Updated on September 07, 2024
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Angular cheilitis significantly impacts our daily eating habits; once affected, it often causes pain during meals. There are many factors behind the onset of angular cheilitis, primarily due to nutritional deficiencies, especially a lack of Vitamin B6. Therefore, we should avoid picky or poor eating habits and consume foods rich in vitamins to supplement deficiencies. Another cause is infection by bacteria or viruses. We need to enhance our immunity to prevent these pathogens from causing angular cheilitis. Additionally, irritants in the mouth, such as foreign bodies, can lead to angular cheilitis. When getting dental crowns or undergoing treatment, it is crucial to choose proper medical procedures to reduce irritation to the oral mucosa.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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What should I do if angular cheilitis does not heal for a long time?

Angular cheilitis generally exhibits a phenomenon of being long-lasting and difficult to cure, which may be related to inflammatory irritation. When the inflammation is not fully resolved, the infection associated with angular cheilitis may not easily subside. It is important for angular cheilitis to be treated actively with anti-infection methods and symptomatic treatments. During dry seasons, which are peak periods for triggering angular cheilitis, it is advisable for patients to avoid licking their lips when they feel dry. Doing so can actually increase the moisture on the lips, leading to the skin at the corners of the mouth being more susceptible to breakdown and secondary infection from surrounding diseases. For example, Candida albicans, a common type of fungus, can frequently infect these areas. Not only can this cause angular cheilitis, but it can also lead to recurrent episodes. Patients are advised to pay attention to their lifestyle habits.

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Written by Wang Ji Zhong
Internal Medicine
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What vitamins should I take for angular cheilitis?

Angular cheilitis can cause changes in facial appearance, particularly causing discomfort and pain especially during eating. Angular cheilitis is closely related to diet, as deficiencies in vitamins, iron, zinc, and other trace elements are also among the causes. Vitamin deficiency, especially the lack of Vitamin B2, is a key factor. Therefore, it is advisable to consume foods rich in vitamins such as fruits, vegetables, eggs, lean meats, as well as seaweed, kelp, and mushrooms to recover quickly.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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How to determine the type of angular cheilitis.

Angular cheilitis is relatively common in everyday life, especially prevalent among children. The most common type seen is nutritional angular cheilitis, generally caused by a deficiency in vitamins due to children’s frequent picky eating, loss of appetite, and malnutrition. The symptoms usually manifest as moist whitish areas at both corners of the mouth, accompanied by ulcers and raw sores. In severe cases, it can spread to the inner mucosa and vary in length. Another type of angular cheilitis is streptococcal angular cheilitis, generally caused by infections from streptococci or staphylococci. This type of cheilitis typically results in erosion at the corners of the mouth, present with horizontal lines, and due to the bacterial infection, localized bleeding, crusting, and pus formation may occur. Local cleansing followed by the application of antibiotic ointments can be very effective for treating this condition. A less common type is fungal angular cheilitis, also known as candidal infection angular cheilitis, typically occurring in children when their immunity is compromised. The moist local environment leads to similar damage at the corners of the mouth, along with whitish erosion. It is crucial to maintain hygiene and boost the child's immune system to manage this type of angular cheilitis.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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Does lip balm work for angular cheilitis?

Angular cheilitis is a relatively common phenomenon during the autumn and winter seasons, generally due to the dry weather, which may cause the lips to crack. If the lips have not yet cracked, applying lip balm regularly can help moisturize and repair the lips. However, if angular cheilitis occurs and there is already some skin damage and peeling, it is recommended that patients apply an anti-inflammatory ointment, which can aid in anti-inflammatory repair. Lip balm can generally be used for daily application to moisturize, but it is still recommended that patients seek appropriate treatment and possibly take some vitamins or trace elements orally.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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Does angular cheilitis require rest?

Angular cheilitis, commonly referred to as cracked corners of the mouth, can occur when a person is experiencing internal heat or lacks certain vitamins or trace elements. It is recommended that patients rest more and appropriately supplement their diet with vitamins and trace elements to enhance their immune response, which can aid in the repair of cracked corners of the mouth. Therefore, patients must pay attention to adjusting their lifestyle and dietary habits, get plenty of rest, engage in some outdoor activities, and relax their mind. Additionally, it is beneficial for patients to consume fresh vegetables and fruits and supplement with vitamins and trace elements as needed, which can significantly aid in the recovery from angular cheilitis. Patients should also drink plenty of water and maintain good oral hygiene habits.