Angular cheilitis (angular stomatitis and perleche) is a swollen scratch at the corner of the mouth that often occurs in both corners of the mouth. Scratches can bleed when the mouth is opened in severe cases of angular cheilitis and ulcers can form in some cases.
Although fungal infection which has been linked to nutritional deficiencies is the main cause of angular cheilitis, particularly iron, riboflavin, zinc or vitamin B-2 deficiencies. Angular cheilitis is frequently seen in the elderly population who experience a loss of perpendicular measurement due to tooth loss, leading to excessive closure of the mouth.
With dentures, many people develop angular cheilitis because the angular position of the false teeth may not fit correctly. In this situation, the skin can become moist with saliva, which can be the perfect environment for fungal bacteria to flourish.
The same fungus that causes a yeast infection (Candida) can be a cause of angular cheilitis fungal infection. Your dermatologist can test a culture of the affected area to see if the bacteria are present. If you have a deficient immune system, he may also do a blood test to see.
The most appropriate angular cheilitis remedies are creams that have antifungal and antibacterial properties. Some of the remedies for angular cheilitis are as follows:
- Echinacea: Stimulates the body’s immune system to help fight infection, and has been widely used to treat the symptoms of infections.
- Goldenseal: Usually this is used as an antibiotic. Often used in conjunction with Echinacea to ward off the common cold or flu.
- Rose hips: Vitamin C is obtained from it.
- Chamomile – Often used to calm overly irritated nerves, soothe stomach aches, stop ulcers, and fight infection.
- Garlic: With natural antiviral properties, this is a powerful natural antibiotic. In reducing cholesterol, it helps and stops the formation of internal blood clots that trigger heart attacks.
- Slippery Elm Bark: To soothe sore throats, coughs, and stomach upsets, this is helpful.
- Ginseng: It is used to boost the immune system and helps protect the liver from toxic things. Widely, it has been used to improve stamina.
- Dandelion: This is helpful in relieving premenstrual bloating.
- Feverfew: In the prevention of rooster headaches, this has been used to help.
- Raspberry Leaf: This is popular in curing morning sickness and uterine infection. It is also known to help in the prevention of miscarriage.
- Spearmint and Peppermint – Typically used in the treatment of indigestion.
- Comfrey: Often used to treat cuts or bruises.
- Senna: This is a very powerful natural purgative.
- Uva Ursi: It is used as a natural diuretic, and is also known for its urinary antiseptic effects.
- Ginger: Has been used to prevent motion sickness and also in preventing internal blood clots that trigger heart attacks.
- Licorice: It is a digestive aid and good for calming sore throats and treating ulcers.
Keep in mind, before starting any type of angular cheilitis remedies, educate yourself as much as possible about any contraindications or allergies you may have and you may want to consult with a dermatologist for help.
