What is the cause of bad breath?

Bad breath is a symptom which can annoy people around us though we may be unaware of its presence. It is most commonly due to poor dental hygiene or a tooth infection. Bad breath is usually caused by the breakdown of proteins by the bacteria present in our mouth. But there are several serious diseases in which Bad breath may be an important feature or sometimes it can even be the presenting symptom.

The following are the diseases of the Oesophagus, Stomach and the Airways which cause Bad breath and can easily be identified by a careful medical history.

Diseases of the oral cavity that cause bad breath:

• Dental decay
• Perionditis or other Gum diseases
• Food stuck between the teeth.
• Xerostosis or Dry mouth ( This is a condition in which the mouth becomes dry due to lack of saliva. For more details Ask a Doctor )
• Postnasal drip (catarrh coming down the back of the throat from the sinuses and nasal passages)
• Tonsil or Throat infection.

Diseases of the airways that cause Halitosis\bad breath:

• Sinusitis
• Nasal Polyps
• Foreign body
• Hindered flow of air or mucus
• Bronchitis
• Pneumonia

Diseases of the oesophagus and stomach that cause Halitosis\bad breath:

• Gastro oesophageal reflux and Gastritis.
• Pharyngeal Pouch
• In rare cases, bad breath can be a sign of a significant general health problem, so it should not be ignored. Diseases of the Liver (Cirrhosis), Kidney (renal insufficiency) and Heart (Infective Endocardits) are some of the fatal diseases that can present with Bad breath.

How to diagnosis?

A good medical history along with a few simple investigations would be sufficient to find out the underlying cause of the Bad breath.

What can you do for yourself?

• Maintain a good level of oral and dental hygiene.
• Apart from brushing, it is important to clean between your teeth using dental floss.
• Use a tongue cleaner and clean right to the back of the tongue.
• Use a mouthwash recommended by your dentist or pharmacist. The best time to use it is just before sleeping
• Try leaving the Habit of smoking.
• Drink plenty of fluids.Chew sugar-free gum, especially if your mouth feels dry
• Regularly eat fresh, fibrous vegetables.Consult your doctor regularly.

For more information fell free to Ask a Doctor .