Diagnostics
To make a correct diagnosis, several different factors must be taken into account. If the dry corners of the mouth occur only rarely and heal on their own within a few days, a diagnosis is usually not necessary, as these are probably caused by a changed climate. In the case of prolonged or recurring complaints, it is important to consider how deep the tears are, whether there is a rash or increased redness, whether the area is itchy and whether there are accompanying symptoms. In any case a doctor should be consulted.
Accompanying symptoms
The most common accompanying symptoms of dry mouth corners are redness, tears, the constant need to moisten the lips and corners of the mouth, burning, itching and pain, especially when eating, laughing, yawning, coughing or sneezing. If there is no particular cause, the complaints are usually limited to the above-mentioned symptoms.However, if the dry corners of the mouth are caused by a deficiency, infection or systemic disease, further complaints may occur. An infection often initially manifests itself by increased redness.
In addition, the affected area can swell and cause severe pain. Bacterial inflammation can also lead to the discharge of pus. Fungi usually cause a dry, itchy and sharply limited redness.
Viral infections are mainly caused by herpes viruses and manifest themselves as crusty, red thickenings. In the case of deficiency symptoms such as iron, zinc or vitamin deficiency, symptoms such as lassitude, paleness, brittle hair, brittle nails, digestive problems or dizziness often occur and are difficult to diagnose. In the case of systemic causes, such as diabetes, neurodermatitis, liver diseases or autoimmune diseases, dry or cracked corners of the mouth are often only a side effect and therefore in most cases not the first symptom that patients notice
Treatment
The most important therapy is the prevention of dry mouth corners. This is best achieved through protection and care. This includes drinking plenty of fluids, applying cream regularly to the lips and the corners of the mouth (e.g. with Labello) and avoiding regular wetting with the tongue.
These measures can also be very helpful if the corners of the mouth have already become dry and cracked. Avoiding contact with potential sources of infection and regular cleaning of the affected area should also be part of the treatment. For example, it can be helpful to avoid wearing make-up or lipstick.
In the case of infections caused by viruses, fungi or bacteria, treatment should be carried out by a doctor. This doctor will usually take a smear of the corners of the mouth to identify the pathogen in question. Depending on the pathogen, a cream is usually prescribed afterwards, which should be applied for several days.
Although deficiency symptoms are difficult to diagnose, they can usually be treated very well by substitution (administration) of the deficient substance. If the cause is a specific disease, the treatment depends on the disease in question and can vary greatly. The treatment of dry and cracked corners of the mouth with Schüssler salts is possible.
Therapy is possible by applying an ointment from the outside as well as therapy from the inside with tablets. A frequent Schüssler Salt for the treatment of cracked skin is the so-called Calcium Fluoratum. Manganum sulfuricum and Ferrum Phosphoricum are also a popular alternative or supplement for cracked corners of the mouth.
