Angular Cheilitis Treatment FAQs

In this article we have provided answers to frequently asked questions about angular cheilitis and its treatment.

What is angular cheilitis?

Angular cheilitis describes an inflammation that occurs in the corner of the mouth usually associated with a fungal or bacterial infection. It is also called angular stomatitis and perleche. (Note that yeasts such as Candida albicans are botanically related to fungi so the secondary infection is sometimes described as a yeast infection)

What are the main symptoms?

The most obvious symptom is raw, irritated and cracks in the corners of the mouth. This normally happens on both sides of the mouth simultaneously. The lesions may become ulcerated, inflamed and crusty, making it difficult to eat, laugh or smile. In severe cases the cracks can bleed when the mouth is opened. If the condition persists, sufferers may also experience embarrassment and loss of quality of life. Some people end up withdrawing from normal social interactions.

What causes angular cheilitis?

Although angular cheilitis is often aggravated by a fungal or bacterial infection, this is not usually the root cause. Bacteria and Candida yeast species are ubiquitous on our body (and in our saliva) and are normally benign. But if conditions allow (see bullet list below) they can grow into an outbreak causing an infection with negative symptoms. Fungal infections are more commonly associated with angular cheilitis than bacterial ones.

The following conditions/habits can cause angular cheilitis:

A habit of licking the lips causing them to remain damp from saliva for long periods of time.
Poor fitting dentures that allow saliva to pool in the corner of the mouth.
Changes in face shape and jaw architecture as a result of aging, injury or tooth loss. If an overbite develops for example this can increase susceptibility to angular cheilitis.
A nutrition deficiency in iron, vitamin B2, B12 or zinc.
An allergic reaction to certain toothpaste, mouthwash or lipstick brands.
A reaction to certain skin medications.
Malabsorption conditions where there is an abnormality in absorption of food nutrients in the gut.

Is angular cheilitis contagious?

Unlike oral herpes, angular cheilitis (or angular stomatitis) is not contagious. The two can be distinguished by the part of the mouth that is affected. In general oral herpes or cold sores affects the lips and skin near the middle of the mouth while angular cheilitis is a rash at the corner of the mouth.

Is there a good angular cheilitis home remedy?

Angular cheilitis is a condition that responds well to home remdies and it makes sense to explore the options.

Most home remedies work by changing the local environment around the corner of the mouth to make it less conducive to bacteria and fungal growth. As fungi and bacteria thrive in moist environments, the key is to dry out the area.

These approaches can work in a matter of hours and rely on ingredients commonly available in most households (hence their term "home remedy"). One of the best overnight cures has been described by Katherine Sage in this step by step guide. If you don't have the ingredients at home, they are cheaply available in most decent sized grocery stores.

Should I believe the claims of an angular cheilitis overnight cure?

Of course much depends on the actual approach used, but it certainly is possible to resolve angular cheilitis overnight. The best approaches concentrate on making the corners of the mouth less conducive to irritation, yeast and bacterial growth. In other words removing the conditions that pathogenic organisms (such as yeasts and bacteria) need to survive. An integral part of this is drying the area out - and keeping it that way. Click through to this overnight cure for the details.

Can I use an antibiotic or anti-fungal to cure angular cheilitis?

For severe or chronic cases that don't disappear quickly or respond well to home remedies, you should book an appointment with a doctor. Following a definite diagnosis of whether a bacteria or fungus is involved, you will either be prescribed antibiotic or antifungal medications. Often this is used in combination with a hydrocortisone medication to address the inflammation.

But bear in mind that if you don't remove the root cause of the infection (see causes of angular cheilitis above), it may recur at a later date whatever angular cheilitis cure you use. See the steps laid out below on prevention.

How can I prevent angular cheilitis from happening in the first place?

The best preventative steps to take will depend on the primary cause of the inflammation. So for example if the condition is the result of:

poor fitting dentures - these should be changed;
excessive lip licking - use a medicated balm to keep the lips conditioned and make an effort to get out of the lip licking habit;
overbite or tooth loss - book an appointment with a dentist;
nutritional deficiencies - adjust your diet accordingly ideally in consultation with a qualified nutritionist; and
if you suffer from malabsorption syndrome, medical attention should be sought.

Probiotic Pearls Reviews

Written by Mary Glen

We offer the following 3 recommendations when it comes to purchasing probiotic pearls. The “pearl” simply describes a pearl or bead shaped capsule used as the delivery method. The method is popular as a well designed pearl capsule will ensure that the live bacteria are able to pass through the acidic environment of the stomach to the lower intestines intact and unharmed.

But an effective delivery method is just one factor when choosing a probiotic. There are three others. See below:

The health claims made for the bacterial strains included in the probiotic are scientifically supported (Lactobacillus and Bifidobactieium strains are the most recommended).
A high culture count per dosage (this is normally measured as Colony forming units or CFUs. Look for at least 1 billion CFUs)
Shelf stable to ensure potency up to the expiry date.
Effective delivery method (as discussed, pearls probiotics provide a delayed release method).

	Acidophilus Pearls A best selling probiotic, and one of the earliest to be marketed as a “pearl probiotic”. The supplement contains 1 billion active cultures and a mix of probiotic strains including Lactobacillus Acidophilus and Bifidobacterium Longum strains. These are some of the most studied probiotic strains and also occur naturally in the body and in live yogurt. Acidophilus pearls have been formatted to help improve digestive function. The pearl delivery method is shelf-stable and protects the bacteria from harmful stomach acid and pancreatic bile. View Product

	Integrative Therapeutics Probiotic Pearls Marketed as “the smarter probiotic” this is a multi-strain probiotic also containing Lactobacillus Acidophilus and Bifidobacterium Longum to help maintain a healthy balance of intestinal flora. Each tiny pearl-shaped capsule contains 1 billion CFUs protected from heat, moisture and stomach acids. The health benefits of lactic acid producing bacteria such as L. acidophilus and B.longum are backed by over 75 years of published research. The recommended dosage is one capsule daily to improve digestive health, boost the immune system and support healthy skin. No refrigeration required. View Product

	Natrol BioBeads Probiotic Acidophilus Beads… pearls it all comes down to a delivery system that ensures viability of the bacteria. These Biobeads are designed to provide three layers of protection: 1) A targeted release technology ensures that the probiotic is shelf stable for 18 months. 2) the bead passes intact through the acidic stomach environments. 3) The internal layer breaks down releasing 2.6 billion CFU’s of probiotic bacteria. No refrigeration needed. Perfect for easing digestive problems associated with travel. View Product

Not all probiotic pearls (or any probiotic for that matter) are made equal

The video below from Brenda Watson provides guidance on choosing the right probiotics for your needs.

How probiotics contribute to health

Literally trillions of bacteria reside in your digestive tract, including over 1000 different strains. Here they assist in digestion, boost the immune systems, help in the manufacture of needed vitamins, manage intestinal inflammations, and help fight the growth of harmful bacteria and yeast (see our article on probiotics for yeast infection).

Unfortunately a poor diet, stress, travel, antibiotic use and exposure to illness can reduce these populations of friendly bacteria which can lead to intestinal issues such as diarrhea and constipation as well as the growth of pathogenic microbes. Taking a regular probiotic supplement will help in keeping a balanced intestinal environment and in so doing contribute to overall health and well-being.

Cracks In Corner Of Mouth? You May Have Angular Cheilitis

Written by Mary Glen

If you suffer from a recurrent problem where the skin at the corners of your mouth becomes irritated and develops small cracks, it is likely you have a condition known as angular cheilitis (also called perlèche, cheilosis or angular stomatitis). If the condition becomes severe, the cracks can bleed and then crust over or ulcerate, making it difficult to eat or open the mouth.

The cracks typically develop due to the collection of moisture (saliva) at the corners of the mouth. This encourages invasion by the Candida albicans yeast or by bacteria and a resulting infection. It is more prevalent in people who lick their lips often, suck their fingers or breathe through the mouth.

Age-related changes to the architecture of the mouth (for example after the loss of teeth) and poorly fitting dentures can cause an over-closure of the mouth, thus increasing the risk. It is also thought that people who have a vitamin B, iron or zinc deficiency are more susceptible. Unlike cold sores, which are caused by a type of herpes virus, angular cheilitis is generally not contagious.

Managing angular cheilitis symptoms

Avoid eating spicy or acidic foods or drinks as this will irritate the cracked corners of the mouuth
Some mouthwashes and toothpastes may irritate the skin, so stick to mild and sensitive brands.
Avoid lipsticks that increase the dryness as this can make the cracking worse.
Using a lib balm will help relieve the symptoms and soothe the discomfort but will do little to remove whatever is causing the inflammation (usually a yeast or bacterial infection – see next section on treatment).

Conventional treatment for angular cheilitis

For minor yeast infections, an over the counter topical antifungal cream may be enough to treat the condition. (Note we have a section of this website dedicated to providing information on how to treat yeast infection). If the inflammation is the result of a bacterial infection (less common), applying an antiseptic cream can be effective.

Bear in mind that if mechanical predisposing factors are present (for example ill-fitting dentures), these should be changed. A course of oral iron and vitamin B supllmenets is also recommended.

Alternative natural treatments – A remarkably effective angular cheilitis home remedy

Some sufferers find that topical treatments for cracked corners of the mouth only mask the symptoms of angular cheilitis and do not eliminate the cause. Recurrent infections are common and the disease can become chronic in nature.

Far better to tackle the “internal angular cheilitis environment” as explained in this step-by-step program by Katherine Sage, a former angular cheilitis sufferer.

Her program takes 2 simple ingredients that most people have in their home and ensures a quick (usually overnight) and permanent cure. If you suffer from this condition we think you’ll like what she has to say. Click here for the details.

For more information have a look at this Angular cheilitis treatment FAQ page.

Treating Male Yeast Infection

Written by Mary Glen

In this article we cover 3 ways to treat male yeast infection. Symptoms include a red, itchy rash at the tip of the penis. See more on male yeast infection symptoms. Most infections can be treated with an over the counter antifungal products but if the rash does not go away, or if it recurs, you should consult your doctor.

How to treat male yeast infection

	Yeastrol Yeastrol offers multiple symptom relief for male yeast infections. It combines 12 ingredients which will address the itching, rash and discomfort of the infection. It is a spray so there is no need to deal with messy creams. Yeastrol is 100% natural and safe and has no known drug interactions. The formulation takes into account the particular yeast infection symptoms that affect men. Click for full review.

	Monistat antifungal cream Monistat cream contains a well known antifungal agent – Miconazole Nitrate – and is applied topically to the affected area. Although it has been designed to address vaginal yeast infections, it is also effective for male yeast infection treatment. Apply the cream twice daily for a week. It is available without prescription. If you experience a severe burning sensation and a serious skin irritation, stop using the cream and consult your doctor for advice. Click for full review.

	Acidophilus Pearls Acidophilus pearls is one of the best selling probiotics. It contains the bacterial strains Lactobacillus Acidophilus and Bifidobacterium Longum which are commonly found in yogurt and help re-balance the natural gut flora. Lactobacillus species in particular have been shown to play a role in eliminating Candida and are often recommended as probiotics for yeast infection. The live bacteria are enclosed within a protective “pearl”. Click for full review.

Other considerations

If your partner also has the symptoms of yeast infection they should also seek treatment as you may be reinfecting each other. Candida albicans is a type of fungus and, like all fungal organisms, it grows in moist environments . So it is important to keep your penis as dry as possible at all times. Only wear loose fitting underwear made from natural fibers such as cotton.

The above products are for treatments that are available without a prescription from your doctor. But it is important to bear in mind that for severe and chronic cases of male yeast infection you should book an appointment with your doctor as prescription drugs may be needed. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying the treatment.

Best Athletes Foot Treatment

Written by Mary Glen

Athletes foot is also known as foot fungus, tinea pedis, toe fungus and ringworm of the foot. It is caused by a common dermatophyte fungus that thrives in warm, moist and airless conditions (such as inside our shoes and socks). For a better idea of the main symptoms and what the infection looks like, check out these foot fungus pictures.

For the best treatment for athletes foot it’s worth considering a three-pronged approach. Staring from left to right:

Antifungal cream or spray
Start with an antifungal cream such as Lotrimin cream – thought by many to be the best athletes foot cream. If you prefer not to touch the infected skin with your hands or you have difficulty reaching your feet then use an antifungal spray. We like Lamisil spray as it’s one of the few prescription strength athletes foot cures available as a spray.

Antifungal powder
Then sprinkle some powder into the shoes and socks that you wear most often. Here are a selection of antifungal powders widely used for foot fungus treatment.

Antifungal soap
Use an antifungal soap when washing your feet (remembering to dry the skin between the toes carefully afterward). Here’s a selection of the most popular antifungal soap brands to get rid of athletes foot fungus.

You may not need to use all three approaches, often just a cream or spray will do. But if you are susceptible to athletes foot and experience repeated infections, it’s worth following a more integrated approach combining a cream or spray with a powder and an antifungal soap.

Here are some additional tips for an effective treatment for athletes foot:

The first thing to realize is that athletes foot is not eliminated when symptoms disappear. You should continue to treat for a full course (often 1 or 2 weeks) even when you are no longer experiencing any symptoms. Otherwise you will be prone to recurrent and repeated infections.
Remember also that the same fungus can also cause other infections on other parts of the body – see these skin fungus pictures for more details – so you want to eliminate the infection completely and avoid cross-infections.
Always dry your feet well after bathing, using a separate towel for your feet, and don’t wear the same shoes and socks every day.
Make sure you change your socks at least once a day – more if you are prone to sweating – and wash them on a hot cycle (60 Centigrade or 140 Fahrenheit).
Don’t wear socks made from synthetic materials that are not well ventilated.
Protect your feet in public environments where floors are damp as this is how the infection often spreads from person to person. Put on rubber flip flops when using public changing rooms or showers.