Angular cheilitis is a common inflammatory condition that affects the corners of the mouth, causing discomfort and sometimes pain. This condition can make everyday activities like eating, speaking, or even smiling challenging. While it often proves persistent, several effective strategies can provide rapid relief and address the underlying issues for a lasting improvement.
What is Angular Cheilitis
Angular cheilitis manifests as redness, cracking, scaling, and sometimes ulceration at the corners of the lips. The affected skin appears inflamed and can be painful, especially when opening the mouth wide. This localized inflammation is distinct from cold sores, which are caused by the herpes simplex virus and typically present as fluid-filled blisters. Persistent moisture and friction at the mouth corners contribute to its development.
Fast-Acting Home Remedies
Immediate relief from the discomfort of angular cheilitis often involves creating a protective barrier and promoting healing. Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly, like Vaseline, forms a barrier that locks in moisture and shields the compromised skin from irritants and further cracking. This continuous hydration helps the skin repair itself and can reduce pain quickly. Coconut oil, known for its moisturizing and mild antimicrobial properties, can also be gently dabbed onto the affected area to soothe inflammation and support healing.
Honey offers beneficial properties due to its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can aid in wound healing. A small amount can be applied directly to the corners of the mouth. For more pronounced inflammation, an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream (0.5% or 1%) can temporarily reduce redness and swelling. Use such creams sparingly and for a short duration, as prolonged use can thin the skin or worsen certain infections. Maintaining meticulous hygiene, including gently cleaning the area and keeping it dry after eating or drinking, further supports rapid recovery.
Identifying and Addressing Causes
Addressing the underlying causes of angular cheilitis is important for preventing recurrence and achieving a lasting solution. Chronic lip licking constantly wets and dries the delicate skin, leading to irritation and cracking. Excessive drooling can also create a persistently moist environment conducive to inflammation. Ill-fitting dentures can trap saliva at the mouth corners, fostering a moist environment where microbes thrive, and may also cause friction.
Nutritional deficiencies, particularly of iron and B vitamins like riboflavin (B2), folate (B9), and cobalamin (B12), are frequently linked to angular cheilitis. These nutrients are important for skin health and integrity, and their absence can compromise the skin’s barrier function. Fungal infections, most commonly Candida albicans, are a significant cause, thriving in moist, warm environments at the mouth corners. Bacterial infections, often Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus, can also contribute to or complicate the condition, presenting with symptoms like crusting or pus. Certain medications, such as isotretinoin, can cause dry skin and lips, making individuals more susceptible to developing angular cheilitis.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While home remedies can offer temporary relief, it is important to seek medical attention if symptoms persist beyond one to two weeks of consistent home treatment. Worsening pain, spreading redness, or the presence of pus are signs that the condition may be complicated by a more severe infection requiring professional intervention. Frequent recurrence also warrants a medical evaluation, as it suggests an unaddressed underlying cause. A healthcare provider can diagnose the specific cause, such as a fungal or bacterial infection, or a nutritional deficiency, through examination or laboratory tests. They can then prescribe targeted treatments, like antifungal creams, oral antibiotics, or specific vitamin supplements, to effectively manage and resolve the condition.
References
1. Antimicrobial activity of virgin coconut oil against Staphylococcus aureus.