Easy Ways for Curing Angular Cheilitis

By admin | May 6, 2012

There are a few ways of curing angular cheilitis, a really common affliction which can present itself in anyone, but particular younger and older patients.

Angular cheilitis is a bacterial infection that affects the lips. Usually found at the corners of the mouth, the condition results in inflammation and burning. Cracks that appear at the corner of the mouth prove to be itchy and painful. If the condition worsens, then bleeding can result when the mouth is opened. Simple everyday activities like opening your mouth to talk or eat can become highly challenging. Although neither dangerous nor contagious, angular cheilitis should be addressed immediately to avoid excruciating discomfort.

Not only is the condition troublesome but can also be very embarrassing. Your lips are an important facial feature and you want them to appear attractive rather than marked by lesions around the corners.

Contributing factors can be a lack of proper nutrition, yeast infection or even ill fitting dentures. It is important to get to the root cause of the problem before looking for ways for curing angular cheilitis. If the condition has been caused by a fungal or bacterial infection, then medicated gels that are anti bacterial in nature can be used. The fungus responsible for causing the condition thrives on moisture. Topical antifungal creams are another way for treating the cracked corners of the mouth. Options include nystatin, cortimazole and hydrocortisone among others.

If there is a deficiency detected then supplements should be considered as a way for curing angular cheilitis. Nutritionally, the disorder is associated with a Vitamin B deficiency. This can be addressed through consuming dairy products, meats and leafy green vegetables for vitamin B2. For vitamins B3 and B6, you can eat beans, rice, eggs and fish.

Another deficiency thought to cause the condition is that of iron. Try to increase your iron intake by eating foods that are rich sources of iron or take some supplements instead.

While the condition can be caused by lack of certain nutrients, various other foods can actually trigger the infection. These include acidic fruits like grapefruits and oranges.

Curing Angular Cheilitis By Adjusting Dentures!

If dentures, braces or retainers are responsible for causing angular cheilitis, then they apparatus should be adjusted properly to prevent further damage. Care should be taken to keep the corners of the mouth dry to avoid infection and bacterial growth.

Home remedies are a popular way to address a number of medical conditions and issues. You can find easy ways of treating angular cheilitis naturally by using lip balms or ointments to prevent the area from drying out excessively. Avoid biting or licking your lips. Licking the lips only favors the chance of bacterial growth in these circumstances. Instead, use UV protecting balms during all seasons. Honey, aloe vera and petroleum jelly are some easy recommendations.

Some people have tried drinking milk as a way of curing angular cheilitis. Certain enzymes found in milk might be helpful in killing bacteria responsible for the condition.

Make sure to drink plenty of water to keep your lips well hydrated. Practice sensible oral hygiene by gently wiping your lips after every meal to keep the affected area free of excess moisture or any adhering food particles.  This will help heal cracked corners of the mouth.


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