” Cracks ” is the popular name for an unpleasant phenomenon when microcracks, redness, itching, and even pustular lesions appear in the corners of the lips. The medical name for this condition is angular cheilitis . This is a fairly common phenomenon that can bother both children and adults. Why these painful cracks appear, what makes them dangerous, and how to deal with them – doctors explained.
Content
- The main reasons for the formation of “jams”
- 1. Lack of vitamins
- 2. Infections
- 3. Mechanical irritation
- 4. Weakened immunity
- 5. Allergic reactions
- Symptoms to look out for
- How to treat constipation
- 1. Laboratory diagnostics
- 2. Local treatment
- 3. Diet correction
- 4. Giving up bad habits
- 5. Immunity support
- When to see a doctor
The main reasons for the formation of “jams”
There are several main factors that lead to the formation of cracks in the corners of the lips:
1. Lack of vitamins
The most common cause of “jaundice” is a deficiency of B vitamins, especially B2 (riboflavin), B6, and B12. Vitamins A and C also play an important role. Their deficiency weakens the immune system and disrupts the skin’s regeneration processes.
2. Infections
Often, thrush is of bacterial or fungal origin. For example, microorganisms such as Candida albicans or Staphylococcus aureus can get into the cracks in the corners of the mouth, causing inflammation.
3. Mechanical irritation
Constant licking of the lips, especially in the cold season, or improper use of dentures can cause irritation and microtrauma, which later develop into jams.
4. Weakened immunity
People with chronic diseases, diabetes, or immunodeficiencies are more likely to suffer from angular cheilitis. Disturbances in the microflora and weakening of the body's defenses create a favorable environment for the development of infection.
5. Allergic reactions
In some cases, the cause is an allergy to toothpaste, cosmetics, or food. Then the “jaws” are accompanied by additional symptoms, such as itching, swelling, or a rash.
Symptoms to look out for
Among the main manifestations of “jamming”, doctors distinguish:
• pain and discomfort when opening the mouth;
• redness and cracks in the corners of the lips;
• dryness, itching or burning;
• the appearance of crusts or pus (in case of infection);
• bleeding when stretching the lips.
How to treat constipation
To effectively treat a seizure, it is important to correctly identify the cause. It is worth following these steps:
1. Laboratory diagnostics
If the bumps do not go away within 5–7 days, you should consult a dermatologist or therapist. You may need a blood test for vitamins, glucose, and a swab from the affected area.
2. Local treatment
Antiseptics (for example, chlorhexidine), antifungal ointments (clotrimazole, nystatin), antibacterial creams (levomekol, bactroban), as well as healing agents based on dexpanthenol are used.
3. Diet correction
The diet should be rich in B vitamins, iron and zinc. It is recommended to consume eggs, liver, fish, green vegetables, nuts, buckwheat and dairy products.
4. Giving up bad habits
Avoid frequent licking of the lips, using aggressive toothpaste or cosmetics, and staying in the cold for long periods without protection.
5. Immunity support
Regular walks, healthy sleep, minimizing stress, and taking immunostimulating drugs can be an additional shield against relapses.
When to see a doctor
If the bumps persist for more than a week, are accompanied by severe pain, swelling, pus, or spread to other areas of the skin, you should seek professional help. Parents of young children and the elderly, whose bodies are less able to heal on their own, should be especially careful.
We remind you that we previously wrote about the health risks of tattoos and how to avoid them.