Who is susceptible to cold weather cheilitis and how to treat it?

Angular cheilitis is a skin condition in which the skin at the corners of the mouth (the edges) becomes cracked, red, inflamed, and oozing... causing pain and discomfort. Angular cheilitis does not spread, but if left untreated, the risk of infection can increase and last longer.

Who can get angular cheilitis?

In some cases, angular cheilitis can be triggered by saliva evaporating, drying, and causing irritation. Many people deal with this condition by licking their lips to relieve the dryness and irritation, creating more moisture and leading to angular cheilitis.

The irritated skin at the corner of the lips may crack or peel, sometimes bleeding. Dry, cracked skin is susceptible to infection, usually a Candida or yeast infection, which can make the corner of the lips feel itchy and sore. Common bacterial infections include streptococcus and staphylococcus, which can also occur.

Or a combination of the above infections. Rubbing or licking the infected area can make the condition worse, increasing the pain.

Risk factors include diabetes, which is the leading cause of death; people with weakened immune systems such as those with HIV/AIDS, those undergoing chemotherapy, or immunosuppressive drugs; people with a genetic condition, such as Down syndrome; people with nutritional problems including anemia or poor diet; dental problems: wearing dentures that do not fit properly, causing infection or sagging of the lips, accumulation of saliva that can lead to angular cheilitis, gum disease; dry, cracked lips.

Saliva that constantly accumulates around the mouth can cause angular cheilitis.

How to treat?

Nutrition and lifestyle changes: For people with diabetes, systemic therapy includes diet and lifestyle changes, insulin therapy, or diabetes medications. Taking vitamin supplements or changing your diet can help people with angular stomatitis caused by poor nutrition. Don't use antibiotics indiscriminately: Any inflammatory, infectious, or bacterial condition needs treatment. It is important to diagnose the cause of the infection.

If it is due to a yeast infection, it will not respond to antibiotics. Your doctor will diagnose and prescribe antibiotics if necessary. Do not use antibiotics on your own.

Maintain hygiene: Keeping the corner of your mouth clean and dry can help relieve pain and prevent the condition from getting worse. Lip balm or protectant can reduce dryness and protect the skin from saliva. Your doctor may also prescribe a topical steroid cream, which can help relieve pain and itching. If the cause is an infection in your mouth or dentures, your dentist will treat it accordingly.

Doctor's advice

Although angular cheilitis is small, it can lead to secondary infections or other infections and health disorders if left untreated. For example, it can lead to heart problems. Therefore, when angular cheilitis is detected, it is necessary to see a doctor, do not self-treat at home to prevent the infection from spreading. Angular cheilitis will easily improve after a few days if treated.

To prevent angular cheilitis, keep your lips dry and soft by applying lip balm. Pay attention to a nutritious diet and avoid licking your lips, especially in cold, dry weather. Maintain good oral hygiene. If you wear dentures, soak them in a solution of medicine. Wear dentures properly.

According to SK&DS