Does Low Iron Cause Lip Sores? Understanding the Connection

November 18, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health, iron deficiency anemia was found to be a causative factor in a significant percentage of female patients with oral ulcers. This scientific evidence confirms the link and suggests that addressing low iron may alleviate recurring lip sores for many individuals.

Quick Summary

Iron deficiency, particularly anemia, is directly linked to certain types of lip sores, including angular cheilitis and canker sores. Low iron impairs cell regeneration and immune function, making the mouth's sensitive tissues more vulnerable to inflammation and infection. Treating the underlying iron deficiency is crucial for resolving these oral symptoms.

Key Points

Iron deficiency can cause lip sores: Low iron levels are a known cause of angular cheilitis (cracked mouth corners) and canker sores inside the mouth.
Iron deficiency affects tissue repair: Insufficient iron impairs the body's ability to heal and regenerate the sensitive tissues of the mouth and lips, leaving them vulnerable to inflammation and damage.
Weakened immunity is a factor: Low iron can compromise the immune system, increasing susceptibility to secondary infections that exacerbate oral sores like angular cheilitis.
Diagnosis requires testing: A blood test to check serum ferritin levels is the best way to determine if iron deficiency is the root cause of recurring lip sores.
Treatment involves supplementation: Resolving the deficiency with iron supplements and increasing intake of iron-rich foods is the primary treatment for iron-related oral symptoms.
Other causes exist: If iron levels are normal, other possibilities, such as B-vitamin deficiency or fungal infections, should be investigated.

Understanding the Connection Between Iron Deficiency and Lip Sores

Iron is an essential mineral vital for numerous bodily functions, including the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in red blood cells. When iron levels are too low, the body's ability to transport oxygen to tissues and regulate inflammation is compromised, affecting even the sensitive skin of the lips and mouth. This is why one of the less common but significant symptoms of iron deficiency anemia can be the development of sores and ulcers in and around the mouth.

How Iron Deficiency Triggers Oral Issues

Impaired Tissue Regeneration: Iron is essential for cell growth and repair. Without enough iron, the skin and mucous membranes of the mouth and lips cannot regenerate effectively. This leads to atrophy of the oral mucosa, a condition where the protective lining of the mouth becomes thin and vulnerable to damage.
Weakened Immune Response: A compromised immune system, often associated with iron deficiency, makes the body more susceptible to opportunistic infections, such as those caused by Candida fungi and bacteria. These infections are a common cause of angular cheilitis, the painful cracks that appear at the corners of the mouth.
Inflammatory Response: Iron plays a key role in regulating inflammation. Its deficiency can cause a chronic, low-grade inflammatory state, increasing the likelihood of inflammatory oral conditions like canker sores (aphthous ulcers).

The Two Main Types of Lip Sores Caused by Low Iron

Angular Cheilitis

Painful cracks and sores at the corners of the mouth.
Often appears as red, crusty, and inflamed lesions.
May be accompanied by secondary infections from bacteria or fungi.

Aphthous Ulcers (Canker Sores)

Small, painful ulcers that form on the soft tissues inside the mouth, including the inner lips.
Typically have a white or yellowish center with a red border.
The recurrence of these sores is linked to nutritional deficiencies like iron.

Comparing Oral Manifestations of Nutrient Deficiencies


Feature	Iron Deficiency	B-Vitamin Deficiency (B2, B9, B12)	Zinc Deficiency
Common Oral Sign	Angular cheilitis and canker sores.	Angular cheilitis, glossitis (inflamed tongue), and oral ulcers.	Chapped lips, lip inflammation.
Appearance	Red, flaky cracks at mouth corners; pale gums; smooth tongue.	Cracks at mouth corners, red/magenta tongue, swollen mouth.	Persistent dryness, irritation, and peeling of lips.
Associated Symptoms	Fatigue, pale skin, brittle nails, restless legs.	Dermatitis, fatigue, irritability, mood changes.	Low immunity, diarrhea, skin ulcers, hair loss.
Underlying Mechanism	Impaired oxygen transport and tissue regeneration.	Disruption of cellular function and tissue repair.	Compromised immune function and wound healing.
Treatment Focus	Iron supplements and dietary changes.	B-complex supplements and dietary adjustments.	Zinc supplementation.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you experience persistent lip sores or other oral symptoms like a sore, smooth tongue, it's important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. They can order a blood test to check your iron levels, including serum ferritin, to determine if a deficiency is the cause.

How to Treat Iron-Related Lip Sores

Iron Supplements: The most effective way to treat iron deficiency is through oral iron supplements, typically ferrous sulfate. A doctor will determine the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment, which may last several months to replenish iron stores.
Dietary Changes: Incorporating iron-rich foods into your diet is a crucial step. A balanced diet with lean red meat, seafood, leafy greens (like spinach), beans, and fortified cereals can help raise and maintain iron levels. Including vitamin C sources, like orange juice, with iron supplements can enhance absorption.
Topical Care: While treating the underlying cause, topical antifungal or antibacterial creams may be recommended for angular cheilitis to manage secondary infections. For canker sores, over-the-counter ointments can help manage pain and discomfort.

What if Low Iron Isn't the Cause?

If your iron levels are normal, other factors could be causing your lip sores. Oral health issues can be complex and multifactorial. These causes include other nutritional deficiencies (such as B-vitamins or zinc), fungal or bacterial infections unrelated to iron levels, or even autoimmune conditions. Certain irritants like harsh toothpaste, poorly fitting dental appliances, or excessive lip licking can also be culprits. A healthcare provider can help rule out these other possibilities to find the right treatment plan.

Conclusion

To answer the question, yes, low iron can cause lip sores, especially angular cheilitis and canker sores. This occurs because iron is essential for tissue regeneration, immune function, and inflammation regulation, all of which are vital for maintaining healthy oral mucosa. By treating the underlying iron deficiency through supplements and dietary changes, many individuals can find lasting relief from these painful oral symptoms. For persistent or severe cases, it is always best to consult a medical professional to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Visit the NIH website for comprehensive information on iron deficiency anemia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, low iron is a common cause of cracked corners of the mouth, a condition known as angular cheilitis. This happens because iron deficiency affects skin health and can leave the corners of the mouth more prone to cracking and secondary infection.

Recurrent canker sores (aphthous ulcers) have been linked to nutritional deficiencies, including low iron. While not the only cause, iron deficiency compromises the oral mucosa and immune system, making individuals more susceptible to these painful sores.

The most definitive way to know is by consulting a doctor and getting a blood test to check your iron levels and confirm iron deficiency anemia. Accompanying symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, and a sore tongue can also suggest low iron as the cause.

The fastest and most effective way to treat lip sores caused by iron deficiency is to correct the underlying nutritional imbalance through prescribed iron supplements and an iron-rich diet, as advised by a healthcare provider. Topical treatments can also help manage the sores while the iron levels are being restored.

Yes, if the lip sores are caused by iron deficiency, taking iron supplements can be very effective in resolving the problem. Replenishing your body's iron stores helps improve overall health, including the regeneration and healing of oral tissues.

Many factors can cause lip sores, including other nutritional deficiencies (like B-vitamins or zinc), fungal infections, viral infections (like herpes), certain medications, and local irritants such as harsh toothpaste or dental appliances. Stress and immune issues are also common triggers.

No, they are different conditions. Lip sores caused by low iron are often related to angular cheilitis or canker sores, which are not contagious. Cold sores, on the other hand, are caused by the herpes simplex virus and are highly contagious.