What causes dry lips and oral ulcers in children?

Jun 17, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My son has severely dry and peeling lips, and recently developed mouth ulcers. I would like to know what could be causing dry lips and oral ulcers in children.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Guo Huijie
1. Viral infections: Common triggers include viral infections such as herpangina and hand, foot, and mouth disease. These conditions cause blisters to form on the oral mucosa, which rupture and develop into ulcers. 2. Deficiency of vitamins and trace elements: Deficiencies in vitamin B, vitamin C, folic acid, and trace elements such as zinc and iron can easily lead to oral mucosal ulcers. 3. Local trauma: Injuries such as burns or bites to a child's mouth can damage the oral mucosa and subsequently trigger oral ulcers. 4. Low immunity: Factors such as systemic diseases, congenital immune deficiencies, or recovery from severe illness, surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy may result in weakened immunity in children, increasing the risk of oral ulcers. 5. Other factors: Genetic predisposition and local irritants, such as sharp tooth cusps or residual tooth roots, may also contribute to the development of oral ulcers.