subject: What Causes Splits In The Corners Of The Mouth? [print this page] If you are wondering what causes splits in the corners of the mouth, you might be relieved to learn that this is caused by a very treatable condition known as angular cheilitis. It is not, as many believe, caused by cold weather or the aftermath of a cold or flu (although these conditions can aggravate it).
Angular cheilitis can occur for a number of reasons. It can happen due to nutritional deficiencies, mainly of the B group vitamins, iron and zinc, or it can happen due to constant wetting of the mouth edges due to dribbling or drooling. This could be due to badly fitting dentures, slack muscles around the mouth edges or pen biting or finger sucking.
The splits in the corners of the mouth become entrenched with bacteria and often develop into a fungal infection and this is when the real problems can start. Fungal infections do not easily go away on their own and very often, sufferers find that no amount of over the counter treatments or even prescription medication helps in the long term.
The key to successful treatment is twofold. First of all, you need to examine what causes splits in the corner of the mouth in your case and tackle that. For example, if you suspect a vitamin deficiency is to blame, address that by taking a good, all round nutritional supplement which includes iron, zinc and the B vitamins. If you know that constant dampening of the lips and mouth edges are to blame, then deal with this by removing the cause if possible. For example, if dentures are to blame, have them repaired or replaced. If finger sucking or pen biting are the issue, then try applying a bitter tasting liquid, such as that bought to discourage nail-biting.
Of course, dealing with the root cause of splits in the corners of the mouth is only part of the issue. This is an extremely painful condition and everyday activities such as eating, drinking or speaking become excruciating. What is also absolutely necessary is to get fast relief from the pain and the way to deal with a fungal or bacterial infection is to starve the area of air and moisture and the splits will heal within hours.
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. 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 which is completely guaranteed to work fast. This cure will dry out the sore area within hours, providing fast and permanent relief.
Please visit Angular Cheilitis Treatment to learn more about what causes splits in the corners of the mouth and the steps to eliminate them.
