What causes angular cheilitis?

Written by Wang Ji Zhong
Internal Medicine
Updated on September 21, 2024
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We often see cases of angular cheilitis, which occurs when there is inflammation at the corners of the mouth. There are many causes of angular cheilitis, including local irritation such as rubbing the corners of the mouth incorrectly or frequently licking them, as well as a lack of nutrients. A main cause of oral inflammation is a deficiency in vitamin B2, along with infectious factors, and the presence of bacteria and viral microbes. Candida albicans is a common fungal infection in angular cheilitis, along with other factors such as emotional stress, anxiety, mental factors, and immune genetic factors, all of which can lead to angular cheilitis. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to promptly supplementing needed nutrients, eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and vitamin-rich substances. At the same time, maintaining a good mental state and eliminating irritants in the mouth can help in returning to normalcy.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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Does angular cheilitis require the use of cephalosporins?

Angular cheilitis is also relatively common in clinical practice, commonly referred to as cracked corners of the mouth. This condition is generally caused by a deficiency in vitamins and trace elements in the patient's body, or due to excessive internal heat, leading to erosion at the corners of the mouth. Furthermore, the surface may also exhibit a moist, whitish appearance accompanied by pain. At this time, it is advised that patients should not frequently lick the affected area with their tongue and may apply some anti-inflammatory ointment. If the pain is severe and the damage from angular cheilitis is significant, patients can appropriately take some oral cephalosporins. However, as cephalosporins are antibiotics, it is recommended that patients use them under a doctor’s guidance and not take them indiscriminately. If a patient is allergic to penicillin, cephalosporins should not be used, so it is advised not to take them without proper guidance.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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Is angular cheilitis related to staying up late?

Angular cheilitis is somewhat related to patients staying up late. When patients stay up late for a long period, it can lead to the depletion of certain vitamins and nutrients in the body, causing a decrease in their resistance to illnesses. This may result in angular cheilitis or other discomfort symptoms. Therefore, it is advised that patients pay attention to developing good living habits, which are beneficial for their health. If staying up late persistently weakens the body's resistance, it might lead to various diseases. Patients are advised to cultivate good dietary habits. Frequent late nights might also lead to endocrine disorders, reduced resistance to diseases, and bacterial infections, causing other discomforts. Dietary habits should also be light, including more fresh vegetables and fruits, and an appropriate supplement of vitamins and nutrients is recommended. Thus, patients are advised to avoid staying up late as much as possible.

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Written by Wang Ji Zhong
Internal Medicine
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The causes of angular cheilitis

Angular cheilitis significantly impacts our daily eating habits; once affected, it often causes pain during meals. There are many factors behind the onset of angular cheilitis, primarily due to nutritional deficiencies, especially a lack of Vitamin B6. Therefore, we should avoid picky or poor eating habits and consume foods rich in vitamins to supplement deficiencies. Another cause is infection by bacteria or viruses. We need to enhance our immunity to prevent these pathogens from causing angular cheilitis. Additionally, irritants in the mouth, such as foreign bodies, can lead to angular cheilitis. When getting dental crowns or undergoing treatment, it is crucial to choose proper medical procedures to reduce irritation to the oral mucosa.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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What should I do if angular cheilitis does not heal for a long time?

Angular cheilitis generally exhibits a phenomenon of being long-lasting and difficult to cure, which may be related to inflammatory irritation. When the inflammation is not fully resolved, the infection associated with angular cheilitis may not easily subside. It is important for angular cheilitis to be treated actively with anti-infection methods and symptomatic treatments. During dry seasons, which are peak periods for triggering angular cheilitis, it is advisable for patients to avoid licking their lips when they feel dry. Doing so can actually increase the moisture on the lips, leading to the skin at the corners of the mouth being more susceptible to breakdown and secondary infection from surrounding diseases. For example, Candida albicans, a common type of fungus, can frequently infect these areas. Not only can this cause angular cheilitis, but it can also lead to recurrent episodes. Patients are advised to pay attention to their lifestyle habits.

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Written by Zhang Shu Kun
Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Can angular cheilitis be treated with acupuncture?

Acupuncture can also be used to treat angular cheilitis, as it primarily stimulates acupoints to effectively invigorate blood circulation, remove blood stasis, unblock meridians, and regulate the body. However, acupuncture mainly plays an auxiliary role. It is recommended for those suffering from angular cheilitis to promptly take anti-inflammatory drugs for effective improvement. During the medication period, acupuncture can be used to accelerate healing. If only acupuncture is used for treatment, the effect is relatively slow because acupuncture is a gradual process of conditioning. Therefore, it is best to use medication for timely treatment.