Perhaps you’ve never heard the medical term for lip inflammation, angular cheilitis, and although it sounds a bit scary, it’s actually a common inflammatory condition seen and treated by dermatologists. Angular cheilitis causes inflammation and irritation in the corners of the mouth.
Dr. Rebecca Baxt, a board-certified dermatologist in Paramus, NJ, informs her patients that while “most cases of angular cheilitis aren’t serious, treatment is needed for the condition to resolve in about two weeks.” Dr. Baxt explains, “chronic or untreated angular cheilitis can result in scarring, skin discoloration and can lead to skin thinning, if the infection isn’t treated.”
However, for the majority of individuals with lip inflammation, the condition, once accurately diagnosed, can be easily treated by a board-certified dermatologist.
If you have angular cheilitis or other medical dermatological conditions, schedule a consultation with Dr. Rebecca Baxt, Medical Director of BAXT CosMedical®.
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Who is Most Likely to Develop Lip Inflammation?
Angular cheilitis, inflammation, and irritation in the corners of the mouth is often started by a common bacterial and fungal infection most often appearing in adults and primarily in the winter. Children can also have this condition.
Additionally, people who wear dentures experience lip inflammation three times more often than those who don’t.
What Causes Angular Cheilitis and How is it Treated?
Angular cheilitis may present on one side or both sides of the corners of the mouth. The symptoms may include the following:
- Painful cracks on the sides of the mouth
- Redness
- Blisters and crusting
- Bleeding
Angular cheilitis is caused by saliva pooling (drooling) that typically occurs when sleeping. The saliva pools in the corners of the mouth causing, skin breakdown and often a yeast/bacteria overgrowth.
Following your medical dermatology appointment with Dr. Rebecca Baxt, she will recommend antifungal like an azole antifungal cream and a low dose of anti-inflammatory drug, such as hydrocortisone. Creams are applied 2 times a day. Patients symptoms typically resolve in two weeks or so when optimally treated.
For prevention, Dr. Baxt recommends applying a barrier cream to the corners of your mouth before bedtime. Barrier creams such as Vaseline, zinc oxide, shea butter, or creams will protect the skin from saliva.
If you have any questions or concerns about your medical skin conditions, schedule your consultation with Dr. Rebecca Baxt. Request your consultation online here or by calling 201-265-1300 today.
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