What is angular cheilitis ?

Angular cheilitis is the infection of the sides of the mouth that results in the ulceration and the cracking of these areas. Angular cheilitis is also known as perleche, angular stomatitis and cheilosis.

What causes angular cheilitis ?

Angular cheilitis is caused by any conditions that cause saliva to build up in the side of the mouth to create a moisturized environment where a fungus (Candida albicans) or a bacteria (staph) can live.

These conditions that may cause angular cheilitis include the use of ill-fitting dentures, the constant licking of the lips or the drooling during sleep.

People who have a deficiency in vitamin B2, B6 and B12 are more vulnerable to angular cheilitis.

What are the symptoms of angular cheilitis ?

The predominant symptom of angular cheilitis is the cracking of the sides of the lips. The ulcers that form in the corners of the mouth can be very painful and cause a big discomfort in eating and speaking.

In severe cases of angular cheilitis, these mouth corner cracks can even bleed and a crust may form to cover them.

Is Angular cheilitis dangerous ?

Angular cheilitis is not dangerous and it is not contagious either. And with the right angular cheilitis treatment you can get rid of it in a very short time.

What is the best treatment for angular cheilitis ?

Depending on whether a given case of angular cheilitis is caused by a fungal or a bacterial infection, a doctor may either prescribe an anti-fungal cream like mycolog-ll or an antibiotic like myconazole.

Are there any alternative angular cheilitis remedies ?

Yes, there are actually some very effective alternative angular cheilitis remedies .