Severe chapped lips and a chronic inflammatory condition in the corners of the mouth are common signs of angular cheilitis or perleche (also called stomatitis). Inflammation, cracks, burning, itching and redness are typical symptoms of this malady. Many people who are suffering from this disease erroneously think that it’s actually cold sores or herpes. In some cases, the splits bleed when the mouth is opened, which causes severe discomfort when speaking, eating or doing anything that involves opening the mouth.
The open cuts subsequently form a crust when they start to heal or when they become infected. The cuts may become infected by the fungus candida albicans (and other pathogens), or may be worsened by bacterial or fungal infections.
Angular cheilitis frequently occurs in the elderly, due to loss of teeth, lip biting, constant licking, cold air and wind exposure, malnutrition, diabetes or lack of vitamins. It can also be caused by some medications that dry the skin, such as isotretinoin. Also, it can often occur in young children as a result of sucking on a pacifier, thumb sucking, bottle-feeding or many of a child’s other normal activities. The infection may develop in any circumstances where saliva builds up in the sides of the lips. Bacteria and fungus thrive in moist areas.
Lack of iron or folate in the diet is a common cause of angular cheilits. Our body needs vitamins, including: Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (niacin), Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) and Vitamin B12. You should eat foods that provide B vitamins. Vitamin B2 can be found in cereals, meat, dairy and green vegetables. Vitamins B3and B6 come from fish, eggs, rice and beans. Vitamin B12 comes from bananas, cabbage, cauliflower, and potatoes. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins is the best way to prevent angular cheilitis.
Angular cheilitis is not dangerous or contagious but it is embarrassing to be seen in public and gives you stress and tension. Frustrating, sleepless nights and limited options because of the way people look at you are also some unpleasant side effects. Your life is negatively affected and it doesn’t need to be. You can rid yourself of Chilitis by following some easy steps.
There are some all-natural methods to eliminate the fungal bacteria that cause the infection. Fungal bacteria cannot survive without the presence of moisture. Treatments involve depriving the bacteria of the environment that they require in order to live.