angular cheilitis And CPAP

Hi all, I just developed a second case of angular cheilitis in less than a year and I’m wondering if I’m doing something wrong with my CPAP machine or there’s some other preventative measures I should be using? I use a full mask that covers my nose and mouth.

Angular cheilitis are those sore cracked skin you can get at the corners of your mouth. I used to get them before my CPAP machine every couple of years or so. My doctor prescribed an antifungal cream that I would put on it when it would develop, and that works. As a preventative measure, I used to use and still do dab of Vaseline at the corners of my mouth before bed to make a barrier. My problem is I am a mouth drooler when I sleep, and the moisture makes it conducive for the fungus to develop the corners of my mouth.

I recently increased the humidity of my CPAP machine because I was also dealing with a cough that was left over from a flu, so that puts more moisture around my mouth. I wonder if I should just back off of the humidity settings on my CPAP machine? Anyhow, anyone else dealing with angular cheilitis? It could be just a coincidence and I would have normally developed angular cheilitis. Thanks.

I mouth tape with FF mask to prevent drooling and mouth-breathing, also helps some with jaw drop. CRST FTW.

Possibly could be low B12 or folate. Definitely have those levels tested. Or just supplement yourself and see if they go away. These are water soluble vitamins aka what your body won’t need you’ll just eliminate. Hope this helps!