It is quite an amusing thing that some diseases are so common and still we don’t know anything about them, not even their name. Now, what exactly angular cheilitis is?

One of those very common skin problems affecting the corner of the mouth and lips is known as angular cheilitis.

Some of the very commonly noticeable symptoms like feeling of burning, itching, redness, inflammation or cracks and pain at the corner of the mouth or lip area, clearly indicate that a person is suffering from the problem of angular cheilitis, also called as cheilitis. Saliva gathers at the corner of the mouth and along with pathogens create havoc for the oral health.

Bleeding from these cracks even at the opening of the mouth further worsens the condition as one feels terrible pain while doing simple and essential things like speaking, eating or kissing.

Angular cheilitis can be caused by one reason or the other but basically it is the deficiency of vitamins and other nutritional deficiencies that is the real culprit. The deficiency of Riboflavin or Vitamin B-2, Niacin or Vitamin B-3, Pyridoxine or B-6, Cyanocobalamin or Vitamin B-12 and Anemia i.e. deficiency of iron can create serious problems by making speaking, eating as well as kissing very difficult.

Children and teenagers often lick their lips to give temporary relief to their chapped lips, but it further worsens the condition. The loss of vertical dimension due to loss of teeth triggers angular cheilitis in the elderly people as it results in the over closure of mouth. Also if the dentures have not been fit properly causing improper closure of the mouth, then it may result in it. It may not be a life-threatening disease but bearing the terrible sensation is indeed a brave act. Bacterial infection and yeast infection can also cause cheilitis. Don’t take any medicine without consulting the dermatologist.

For mild cases the application of Lip balms like the Vaseline or any other paraffin based ointment can be effective but do consult your doctor before the condition further deteriorates. Also read how do I get rid of angular cheilitus and feel absolutely free to share your views.