What causes bad breath? Six causes of halitosis

Halitosis refers to the odor emitted from the mouth or other air filled cavities, such as nose, sinuses and pharynx. It seriously affects people's social communication and mental health. Who has reported halitosis as a disease. The survey shows that the prevalence of halitosis in China is 27.5%. In western countries, it is 50%. 10% ~ 65% of people in the world have suffered from halitosis. From intestinal obstruction to dental problems, there are many potential causes of halitosis.

  1. Poor oral hygiene

Strong smelling food is not always the cause of bad breath. Poor oral hygiene can lead to severe halitosis. Factors contributing to inadequate oral hygiene include:

Brush your teeth infrequently

Chronic xerostomia

Inflammation or allergy of mouth, nose and throat

Drugs causing dry mouth

Oral infection

Smoking or chewing tobacco

If oral hygiene is improved and halitosis persists after over-the-counter treatment, seek medical attention.

  2. Sinus infection

The sinuses are channels that fill the face with air. When fluid is trapped in the sinuses, bacteria can multiply, which can lead to infection. The presence of bacteria and excess mucus in the paranasal sinuses can lead to a foul breath odor. Other symptoms of sinus infection include:

Postnasal drip

Poor sense of smell

Mucus producing cough often occurs

Facial pain and stress

Fatigue

Fever

Runny nose

Most sinus infections are caused by viruses, so antibiotics are not used unless bacterial infection is suspected. Through rest and rehydration, symptoms usually ease within a few days. Patients with chronic sinusitis should seek medical treatment in time to determine the cause.

  3. Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) involves the reflux of gastric acid into the esophagus. When gastric acid is mixed with food or bacteria, gastroesophageal reflux disease may make breathing stink.

The burning sensation of the chest or throat is often called heartburn

Dysphagia

Dental caries

Disgusting

Breathing problems

Vomit

GERD is a chronic disease that can cause stomach, respiratory and dental problems. Those with frequent reflux should seek medical treatment in time.

  4. Periodontal abscess

Periodontal abscess is a serious dental infection. Occurs when the pulp inside the pulp decays. This can lead to bacterial infection, pain, swelling, and the accumulation of pus makes the breath stink. Periodontal abscesses may not have painful symptoms until the infection is very serious. Therefore, it should be inspected regularly.

  5. Long term vomiting

People who vomit for more than 24 hours will find their breath sour. This odor is usually caused by the following factors:

Dry mouth

Acids in the stomach enter the mouth

A bacterium or virus that causes vomiting

Vomiting is a way to get rid of toxins, but if a person cannot eat any liquid or food or vomits for more than 48 hours, he should seek medical attention in time. They may need intravenous fluids to treat or prevent dehydration.

  6. intestinal obstruction

People with intestinal obstruction may also experience abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. When the intestine is blocked, the feces will retreat, which may lead to foul breath. Severe cases even vomit feces.

Tumors, poor intestinal peristalsis, or surgical scars can all lead to intestinal obstruction. In other cases, obstruction may be caused by intestinal wall problems caused by Crohn's disease. Swallowing certain objects can also clog the intestines.

In addition to smelly breathing, people with intestinal obstruction may also have the following symptoms:

Abdominal pain

Abdominal distension

Stop venting

Disgusting

Tachycardia

Vomit

Severe intestinal obstruction can be life-threatening. Those suspected of having symptoms of the disease should seek medical treatment in time.

After a physical examination, the doctor may require an imaging examination, such as a (CT) scan, to better observe the intestine and determine the cause of obstruction. Gastrointestinal decompression may also be required to reduce symptoms and reduce the need for surgery. Severe intestinal obstruction, such as caused by surgical scars, may require surgical removal of the obstruction, and sometimes part of the intestine.