subject: Angular Cheilitis Home Cures [print this page] Angular Cheilitis Home Cures Angular Cheilitis Home Cures
If you have very painful splits at the side of the mouth which don't seem to be healing as you might expect, then you may have the common condition known as angular cheilitis. Home cures can be used very successfully as a form of treatment, but it is important to catch the condition early.
Initially, many believe that these sore cracks are something to do with the cold sore virus or are an offshoot of the common cold or flu. Neither of these are true. If you have angular cheilitis, this is the result of a fungal or bacterial infection which has become rooted in the soft skin at the corners of the lips.
This condition usually starts when the edges of the mouth become repeatedly dampened. This can happen due to a number of reasons, for example, dentures which no longer fit, pen sucking, finger biting and having tiny folds of skin. Moisture then collects and the damp warm conditions are perfect for supporting bacterial and fungal growth. Once the area becomes sore, the natural reflex action is to lick it, and this then makes matters worse.
Angular cheilitis home cures you might like to try include removing the source of the moisture. Therefore, if you think that badly fitting dentures are the culprit, then have them adjusted by the dentist. If you are a pen biter or finger sucker, try painting the finger or pen-ends with a harmless but bitter liquid, such as that sold to deter nail biting.
A thick layer of unperfumed lip balm or petroleum jelly can help to prevent further moisture reaching the split skin, plus it can provide a little pain relief, albeit temporary. Reapply several times during the day to maintain the moisture-repellant properties.
Other angular cheilitis home cures include dietary modification and taking a supplement which includes iron and vitamin B12. Increase your intake of foods which can boost the immune system, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, wholegrains, beans, seeds and nuts. These steps can help to arm the body to fight off the current and any future attacks, but it can be some weeks before the results will show.
If you have had cracked lip corners or scabs for more than a couple of days, it is likely that the condition has taken hold and become fungal. If you would like to look at pictures that can help you verify your own condition, you can download this simple and effective overnight cure from the Angular Chelitis Foundation.
This cure will dry out the condition within hours, providing fast and permanent relief. Please visit Angular Cheilitis Home Cures for an overnight solution.