Difference between oral thrush and eczema?

Hello,

I am a 23yrold female with a history of skin problems: impetigo as a child as well as skin problems on feet as a toddler; eczema on hands and wrists starting at a young age lasting into adulthood and and currently dealing with a flareup on my hands now.  I have generalized anxiety and panic disorder so that gives one an idea of my stress level, just in case that may have an impact here.
I am recently having a problem with what seems like eczema on my lips.  It started a couple of months ago as just an itchy patch on the right corner of my mouth that would kind of come and go but mostly be there.  It's now spread over my lips, especially the top lip and is itchy and red, especially in the shower.  It weeps; and cracks like eczema as well which is why I think it is eczema.  Right now, I am using a 1% hydrocortisone cream with colloidial properties and vaseline but it is not really working to get rid of it.  I am wondering what the difference is between thrush and lip eczema; I do not have any other thrush like signs such as whites spots or deposits on my tongue at at, just the itchy, dry, weeping, and cracking.  Could this just be another manifestation of stress??
I would really appreciate a little help,  thank you,

K

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

You could be having an allergic reaction to some substance to which you are either constantly exposed or to which you are being exposed again and again.

What other symptoms are you having? Let us also know if you ahve any past history of any allergic reaction or any family history of allergies, etc.

This could also be due to lip biting,  lip licking, sun exposure, vitamin or mineral deficiencies, dehydration, etc.

You could apply calamine lotion at the site and see if it helps. Use a lip balm with a sunscreen - preferably a medicated one and wash your face several times a day. Apply a layer of vaseline or keep your mouth covered with a wet cloth when at work and see if it helps. Eat a healthy balanced diet and replace any deficient vitamins or minerals.

If the lesions still persist talk to your doctor about it and see what needs to be done after a proper clinical examination.

Let us know if you have any other doubts or queries.

Hope this helps.

Good luck.