A type of fungus called Candida can cause infections in the mouth and throat and even on the lips. This latter type of infection can be called lip fungus.
Symptoms of Lip Fungus
When the mouth is affected by Candida (also known as oral thrush), the corners of the mouth can become cracked, explains the National Health Service (NHS). This cracking is also known as cheilosis or cheilitis. Oral thrush can also cause an infection inside the mouth. Cambridge University Hospitals reports that thick white patches can form throughout the mouth. You might notice these white patches around the insides of your lips.
Causes of Lip Fungus
Oral thrush is normally found on the skin and in the digestive system of healthy people. It doesn't typically cause any problems. However, in some circumstances, this normally harmless fungus can multiply and cause an infection.
The fungus can affect the lips of people who wear poorly fitting dentures. It can also occur in people who lick or rub the corners of the mouth. Some underlying health conditions, like diabetes and immune system deficiencies, can make people more vulnerable.
Treatment for Lip Fungus
However, reassuringly Oral thrush is highly treatable. Medicated ointments can help clear up infections on the skin. Your doctor can also prescribe medicated mouthwashes or lozenges to clear up any fungus inside the mouth. For people with severe Candida infections, oral anti-yeast medications might be used. When you visit your doctor or dentist, they can provide more specific information about the treatment that best suits your situation.
Prevention of Lip Fungus
For people who wear dentures, ensuring the dentures fit well may help prevent Candida infections in and around the mouth. When dentures don't fit well, the upper and lower jaws might not be separated enough by the dentures. This could contribute to the development of lip fungus. Visit your dentist to see if your dentures are aligned correctly. If your dentures no longer fit well, your dentist may be able to adjust the fit. This can be done by either applying new surface material to the base of the dentures or by making a new base for the dentures. The dentures can be completely remade, if necessary.
The Candida fungus grows well in the moist skin folds at the corners of the mouth. If you tend to lick your lips or rub the corners of your mouth, try to break the habit.
Maintaining good oral health can help prevent Oral thrush infections, too. Remember to brush your teeth twice a day with a toothbrush equipped with the latest innovations to give you a whole mouth clean. Don't forget to floss, too.
If you're worried about lip fungus in the corners of your mouth or on your lips, see your dentist. The prognosis for this fungus is good, once the cause has been eliminated.
