Cheilitis is the term used to describe inflamed lips.
The lips can be inflamed because of an infection or skin condition:
They may be inflamed because of an allergy, toxin, medication or injury.
Nutritional deficiency can also lead to cheilitis.
Cheilitis is usually diagnosed by taking a careful history and by clinical examination. Swabs for infections including candida and a biopsy may be required.
Treatment of cheilitis depends on the cause. However, soothing emollient lip balms and sunscreens are usually recommended.
