flaky lips

[hilbeth]

i don't have this complaint all the time but my lips go flaky and abit swollen and lined and a bit numb i thought it was to do with the hay fever i get at certain times of the year but now i'm not so sure wondered if anyone knows what this is caused by

[Jhecka]

Uhm I hope you can help me. I feel like my lips are burning every time I eat. I don't know what to do. I had this case when I was in Grade 3. I forgot the medicines that the doctor gave us. Is there some home ingredients to be used? I am afraid that this will become Angular cheilitis if not cured.

It really bothers me. At school...I can't eat my food because my of my lips. And sometimes it even bleed. I really had a hard time when I had this before and I don't want to let it happen again. Is there something you ca advice?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Firstly, It can be due to vit B deficiency. Take some vitamin B complex for some days and see if your symptoms improve.
Secondly, it can be due to atopic dermatitis or eczema("Atopic" refers to a group of diseases where there is often an inherited tendency to develop other allergic conditions, such as asthma and hay fever). Cheilitis (Inflammation of the skin on and around the lips)is often seen in atopic dermatitis. Diagnosed by blood test like RAST. Avoid licking the lips as saliva evaporates quickly resulting in them being drier than before. Drink plenty of water and take multivitamin supplements and do not apply lipstick or other cosmetic products for some days. Use a humidifier to moisturize the air in your home and apply shea butter or Vaseline on your lips.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.