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Why are my lips getting dry and flaky?
Question
My lips are getting dry and the skin colour changes to that of dry blood. This happens only in the two corners and the size of the spot is approximately 2 mm. I do not have a history of flaking lips. This has suddenly started during the last week. I have not tried using any lypsil stuff. Please advise.
Expert Answer
R
Dr Rishi ParasharMay 18, 2006
Consultant, Department of Dermatology,
Sir Ganga Ram Hospital,
New Delhi
Sir Ganga Ram Hospital,
New Delhi
Cheilitis generally is dryness and often an uncomfortable sensation of the lips with scaling and cracking, and accompanied by a characteristic burning sensation. For all we know you could be suffering from Angular Cheilitis. It is a condition with deep cracks and splits at the corners of the mouth. If severe, the splits or cracks may bleed when the mouth is opened and a shallow ulcer or a crust may form. Possible causes of angular cheilitis include: Infection - Fungal infections are the most common, but viral or bacterial infections can also occur. Nutritional deficiency of vitamin B. Over-closure of the mouth in someone who has been without teeth or dentures for some time. Contact allergy Atopic or seborrhoeic dermatitis Iron deficiency Treatment depends on the cause and can include lip lubrication, antifungal and antibiotic medication, vitamins (especially Vit.B complex), and dentures for a person without teeth.
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