Definition
Inflammatory changes at the corner of the mouth are very common and are referred to in medicine as so-called corner of the mouth rhagades. Typically, the skin at the corner of the mouth is severely reddened, possibly even cracks (fissures) and crusty coatings. The triggers for these inflammations are manifold and range from: Inflammations at the corner of the mouth are usually harmless, but can also be a symptom of a more serious disease and particularly poorly healing inflammations should be examined by a doctor.
- Infections with pathogens such as bacteria, fungi or viruses (such as herpes),
- Skin diseases,
- Deficiency symptoms up to
- Metabolic diseases,
- Diseases of the internal organs and
- Allergic reactions.
The causes of an inflammation at the corner of the mouth are manifold and can also occur in combination.
- Mechanical forces: Even a jerky mouth movement can tear the corner of the mouth due to a strong pulling effect. Since the mouth area is colonized by many pathogens, inflammation quickly occurs when a tear has formed at the corner of the mouth.
If the skin at the corner of the mouth is also very moist due to strong salivation or very dry, this is a strain on the skin and it tears more quickly.
- Herpes infection: Inflammation of the corner of the mouth also occurs in combination with so-called lip herpes, an infection with herpes simplex viruses. The viruses linger in the body and are reactivated by certain circumstances, such as severe stress or alcohol consumption. They multiply especially in the transition area between the red of the lips and the skin, which is why the typical herpes blisters and incrustations occur in the corner of the mouth.
- Iron deficiency: In this case, the body is not supplied with sufficient iron through food or the body cannot properly absorb the supplied iron. Iron deficiency can lead to inflammation of the corner of the mouth, hair loss, brittle nails, fatigue, dizziness and headaches.
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