Experiencing chapped lips throughout the year might be more than just a seasonal issue. While winter’s low humidity, cold temperatures, and harsh winds are typical culprits for dry lips, persistent chapped lips could indicate underlying nutrient deficiencies. Dr. Anusree Gangopadhyay, a Consultant Dermatologist at Fortis Anandapur in Kolkata, discusses the phenomenon known as cheilitis and sheds light on its causes, including the role of nutrient deficiencies.
Understanding Cheilitis Types
Cheilitis comes in various forms, as outlined by Dr. Gangopadhyay:
Angular/Infective Cheilitis: Common among diabetic patients or due to excessive vitamin A intake. Contact/Eczematous Cheilitis: An inflammatory lip reaction triggered by cosmetic allergies. Actinic Cheilitis: UV ray damage to the lower lip from overexposure. Glandular Cheilitis: A rare inflammatory condition linked to smoking and poor oral hygiene. Simplex Cheilitis: Irritation in the lower lip due to bacterial infections.
A study published in the Journal of Oral Diseases suggests that the most common types of cheilitis include cheilitis simplex, eczematous cheilitis, herpetic cheilitis, and exfoliative and angular cheilitis.
Causes of Cheilitis
Nutritional deficiencies are frequent causes of cheilitis. Some key nutrients that play a role include:
Vitamin B-2 (riboflavin): Found in eggs, leafy vegetables, and nuts, deficiency may lead to sore lips. Vitamin B-3 (niacin): Present in whole grains, fish, meat, and dairy, a lack can result in cracked lips and mouth. Vitamin B-6 and B-12: Abundant in meat, fish, legumes, and greens, deficiency may lead to mouth cracks or dermatitis. Vitamin B9: Deficiency can inflame the lips and lead to liver issues. In addition to these deficiencies, dry or chapped lips might result from:
Insufficient iron intake Zinc deficiency Dehydration Excessive vitamin A consumption Lack of vitamin C
Prevention and Treatment
Dr. Gangopadhyay recommends a diet rich in the vitamin B group, iron, zinc, and vitamin C to prevent chapped lips. Adequate hydration is also crucial, achieved through the use of lip balms, coconut oil, beeswax, and honey.
For those experiencing painful chapped lips, consulting a doctor is advisable. Vitamin, iron, and zinc supplements can help alleviate the issue within days or weeks. However, if the problem persists, immediate medical attention is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment based on the type of cheilitis.
In conclusion, persistent chapped lips can be a signal of underlying nutrient deficiencies. By addressing these deficiencies through dietary adjustments and proper hydration, individuals can take proactive measures to maintain healthy and moisturized lips. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.
