Causes
Although the disease has an unknown etiology, the sores of angular cheilitis may become infected by the fungus Candida albicans (thrush), or other pathogens. Studies have linked the initial onset with nutritional deficiencies, namely riboflavin (vitamin B2)[2][3] and iron deficiency anemia,[3] which in turn may be evidence of poor diets or malnutrition (e.g. celiac disease). Zinc deficiency has also been associated with angular cheilitis.[citation needed]
Cheilosis may also be part of a group of symptoms (upper esophageal web, iron deficiency anemia, glossitis, and cheilosis) defining the condition called Plummer-Vinson syndrome (aka Paterson-Brown-Kelly syndrome).
Angular cheilitis occurs frequently in the elderly population who experience a loss of vertical dimension due to loss of teeth, thus allowing for over-closure of the mouth.
Less severe cases occur when it is quite cold (such as in the winter time), and is widely known as having chapped lips. This lesser form mostly happens to young children/teenagers.[citation needed] The child may lick their lips in an attempt to provide a temporary moment of relief, only serving to worsen the condition.[citation needed]
Angular cheilitis can be caused by bacteria, but is more commonly a fungal infection. It can also be caused by medications which dry the skin, including Isotretinoin (Accutane).
People who got chapped lips usually start licking their lips to get a temporarily relief. However, this will only worsen the condition as chapped lips could mean that you are suffering from Angular Cheilitis. Angular Cheilitis is caused by fungal bacteria and by licking the infected areas will only make your condition much more difficult to heal as fungal thrive and live on moisture environment.
Although Angular Cheilitis is not a life threatening disease but it is a condition that should not be ignored as it may just persist to become a chronic case. Many times, it also make one person lose confidence on its appearance because of the red and angry crusty splits at the corners of the mouth or even blisters around the mouth area. It is quite common that this will invite curious stares from other people.
How do I get rid of my angular cheilitis to prevent my embarrassment?
It was proven that natural treatment for Angular Cheilitis seems to be able to combat this problem effectively. People who are suffering from Angular Cheilitis are normally lack of vitamins or iron. So, if you are suffering from this condition, you have to seriously look into your diet and include vitamins. Drink more water as well.
Keeping the infected area dry is also another simple way to get rid of Angular Cheilitis. Fungal bacteria will die very fast in dry environment.
Do also take note of your oral hygiene. If you have dentures, make sure you soak your dentures and keep it clean. Dentures should also be well fitted, it should not be too loosely or over fitted.
