<Things you should know> Correct knowledge about "angular cheilitis and cheilitis" (1) Explanation of the causes and symptoms of "angular cheilitis and cheilitis" About angular cheilitis and cheilitis Types and symptoms of angular cheilitis and cheilitis Main causes of angular cheilitis and cheilitis The lips are one of the most delicate and sensitive areas of the face. Common lip problems include angular cheilitis, characterized by painful cracks at the corners of the mouth, and cheilitis, which involves inflammation and eczema across the entire lip. But why do angular cheilitis and cheilitis occur? We'll explain in detail, supervised by a dermatologist. About angular cheilitis and cheilitis Angular cheilitis and cheilitis are common causes of inflammation and pain around the mouth. First, let's explain the symptoms of angular cheilitis and cheilitis, and the differences between them. What is angular cheilitis? Angular cheilitis is a condition in which inflammation occurs at the corners of the mouth, causing redness and swelling of the lips, peeling skin, and scabbing. Other symptoms of angular cheilitis include dry lips and deep cracks. Speaking and eating can be painful as the corners of the mouth can split when opening the mouth wide. What is cheilitis? Cheilitis is a condition in which inflammation and cracking occur throughout the lips. The lips become generally dry, peel, swollen, and may also be itchy. The difference between angular cheilitis and cheilitis A general way to distinguish between angular cheilitis (inflammation of the mouth) and cheilitis (inflammation of the lips) is that if the symptoms are only at the corners of the mouth, it's likely angular cheilitis. However, it's possible that these conditions are occurring simultaneously, so this distinction should only be used as a temporary guideline. If symptoms persist, consult a doctor. Diseases (illnesses) similar to angular cheilitis/cheilitis stomatitis Stomatitis is a condition in which inflammation occurs in the mouth, including the inside of the cheeks, gums, and tongue, as well as the mucous membranes of the mouth. Ulcers and blisters may be present, and it can occur in a wide range of ages, from children to the elderly. While it can sometimes be caused by accidentally biting the inside of the mouth, the causes are diverse and include fatigue, weakened immunity, viral or bacterial overgrowth, nutritional deficiencies such as vitamin deficiencies, and inflammation due to allergies.The most common type is aphthous stomatitis, which is said to be caused by viruses, bacteria, stress, and other factors. Initially, small white sores appear on the mucous membrane, and the area around them becomes red, swollen, and painful. Even after it heals, it often recurs, and is also called recurrent aphthous ulcers. To reduce inflammation as quickly as possible, it is effective to pay attention to your diet, such as avoiding strong spices, hot foods, tobacco, and alcohol. Cold sores Cold sores are caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus, resulting in small blisters on the lips and around the mouth. Typically, there are few symptoms during the initial infection. In most cases, the virus, which has been dormant in the nerve ganglia since a previous infection, reactivates when the immune system is weakened due to a cold or fatigue, causing symptoms to appear. Recurrence is common.Symptoms include a tingling, prickling, burning sensation, and itching on or around the lips. These symptoms may dry up and scab over within about a week, eventually healing naturally. However, infants and people with weakened immune systems may experience more severe symptoms during their first infection, such as herpetic gingivostomatitis, characterized by fever and numerous blisters accompanied by sores and bleeding. Caution is advised. Types and symptoms of angular cheilitis and cheilitis Angular cheilitis and cheilitis have a wide range of causes. This article will explain the different types and their respective symptoms. Angular cheilitis While angular cheilitis is not generally classified into detailed categories, cases caused by Candida fungus are sometimes called "candidal angular cheilitis." The main symptom is the appearance of a white, moss-like substance at the corners of the mouth. Candida is a type of commensal fungus on the skin and is usually not a problem, but it can proliferate due to reasons such as a weakened immune system, leading to the onset of the condition. lip swelling This is a condition in which the lips suddenly swell. It can be associated with urticaria, hereditary angioedema, or chronic granulomatous cheilitis. contact cheilitis This condition is caused by inflammation of the lips due to contact with certain substances. Irritants contained in cosmetics and facial cleansers are thought to be the cause, and women who regularly use lip balm or lipstick are said to be more susceptible than men. Allergic reactions to food or metals can also be the cause, with citrus fruits, nuts, pineapple, mango, and dental metals being some examples. exfoliative cheilitis This is a condition in which the skin of the lips repeatedly peels off. The lips are extremely dry and it is more common in children than adults. Because frequent licking of the lips can lead to exfoliative cheilitis, it is sometimes called "lip-licking cheilitis." Main causes of angular cheilitis and cheilitis Finally, we will explain the causes of angular cheilitis and cheilitis. Understanding these causes beforehand will help you review your lifestyle habits. Main causes (factors) of angular cheilitis and cheilitis The habit of licking one's lips One possible cause is the habit of repeatedly licking your lips. While licking may temporarily make your lips feel moisturized, it reduces the natural oils in your lips, and the digestive enzymes in your saliva exacerbate dryness. This can worsen lip dryness, leading to cracks at the corners of your mouth and making you more susceptible to cheilitis (inflammation of the lips). dry Other possible causes of angular cheilitis include the following situations: Main causes (factors) of angular cheilitis Candida infection In elderly individuals, due to weakened immunity, angular cheilitis can be caused by infection with the fungus Candida. Candida is a fungus that is naturally present in the human body and does not normally cause angular cheilitis. However, when immunity is weakened, the skin becomes more susceptible to the fungal invasion, making angular cheilitis more likely. Stress and fatigue Excessive stress can lead to a weakened immune system, and a weakened immune system makes it easier for Candida fungi to proliferate. Nutritional deficiencies (vitamins B2, B6, iron) Deficiencies in vitamins B2, B6, and B12 can easily lead to angular cheilitis (cracked corners of the mouth). Mineral deficiencies can also be a cause; iron deficiency can result in glossitis (inflammation of the tongue) and curvature of the nails, while zinc deficiency can cause symptoms such as taste disorders and hair loss. Systemic diseases, drug use Angular cheilitis is more likely to occur in people with diabetes, liver disease, HIV infection, or those undergoing treatment with corticosteroids or immunosuppressants. Other possible causes of cheilitis include the following situations: Main causes (factors) of cheilitis Irritants from detergents, cosmetics, etc. Herpes virus infection Metal allergy Eugenol, used in dental treatment, and temporary fillings used when creating crowns and bridges can also cause cheilitis (inflammation of the lips). Supervised by: Dr. Akiko Suzuki, Department of Dermatology, Fujita Health University HospitalAfter graduating from Teikyo University School of Medicine, she worked in the dermatology department at the same university and Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital before assuming her current position in 2015. She is a certified specialist of the Japanese Dermatological Association. We take care to post accurate information,Please point out any incorrect information. Please submit any comments regarding medical information here. Return to the list of guides categorized by health symptoms.