Chronic Bad Breath: Causes and Solutions

Q: Chronic Bad Breath: Causes and Solutions

Hello, Xiao Wang： Halitosis can be related to dental issues, oral problems, salivary gland disorders, post-nasal drip, and respiratory diseases (such as bronchitis), as well as certain systemic diseases (such as liver and kidney diseases). <br>Further examinations are necessary f

Halitosis

Hello, doctor! I have been suffering from halitosis for over ten years.
When I was younger, my saliva production was normal, but after experiencing gastroenteritis, my saliva production decreased significantly, and I often need to drink water.
Due to the reduced saliva, my tongue frequently has a layer of white-yellow coating.
I rinse my mouth three to four times a day and also use a toothbrush to clean my tongue, but the odor persists.
Even when I'm not speaking, my breath has an unpleasant smell, especially after exercising, in hot weather, or when my body heats up (I sometimes feel warm due to anxiety or being in poorly ventilated areas).
The odor resembles that of feces (but my bowel movements are normal)! Additionally, recently when I rinse my mouth in the morning, I often expel thick phlegm/mucus, and the smell of my breath has become even worse than before.
I wonder if this is related to my previous bronchitis (two months ago, I had a persistent fever for over a week along with coughing and chest warmth, but after a chest X-ray, the doctor said there were no issues)?

Xiao Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/10/03

Dr. Chen Junliang reply Otolaryngology

Hello, Xiao Wang: Halitosis can be related to dental issues, oral problems, salivary gland disorders, post-nasal drip, and respiratory diseases (such as bronchitis), as well as certain systemic diseases (such as liver and kidney diseases).
Further examinations are necessary for differential diagnosis.

Reply Date: 2002/10/03

More Info

Chronic bad breath, or halitosis, can be a distressing condition that affects individuals both socially and psychologically. Understanding its causes and potential solutions is essential for effective management. Based on your description, several factors may contribute to your persistent bad breath.

Causes of Chronic Bad Breath
1. Reduced Saliva Production: Saliva plays a crucial role in oral health by helping to wash away food particles and bacteria. A decrease in saliva production, known as xerostomia or dry mouth, can lead to an increase in bacteria in the mouth, resulting in bad breath. This condition can be caused by various factors, including medications, dehydration, or underlying health issues.

2. Tongue Coating: The presence of a white or yellow coating on the tongue is often indicative of bacterial overgrowth. The tongue's surface can harbor bacteria, food particles, and dead cells, which can contribute to foul odors. Regular cleaning of the tongue is important, but if the coating persists, it may require further investigation.

3. Oral Hygiene: While you mention brushing your teeth and tongue multiple times a day, it’s important to ensure that you are using the right techniques and products. Flossing daily and using an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in the mouth. Additionally, consider using a tongue scraper specifically designed to remove the coating on the tongue.

4. Gastrointestinal Issues: Your history of gastrointestinal problems, including a recent episode of gastroenteritis, may also play a role. Conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause stomach acids to flow back into the esophagus, leading to bad breath. If you experience symptoms like heartburn or regurgitation, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider.

5. Respiratory Infections: The thick, colored mucus you mentioned could indicate an ongoing respiratory issue, such as sinusitis or bronchitis. These conditions can produce foul-smelling mucus, which can contribute to bad breath. If you have had a recent respiratory infection, it may take time for your body to fully recover, and the lingering effects could be contributing to your symptoms.

6. Diet and Lifestyle: Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, can lead to temporary bad breath. Additionally, habits like smoking or consuming alcohol can exacerbate the issue. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can help mitigate these effects.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Hydration: Increase your water intake to help combat dry mouth. Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candies can also stimulate saliva production.

2. Oral Hygiene Routine: Ensure that you are brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily. Incorporate a tongue scraper into your routine to effectively remove the coating on your tongue.

3. Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule regular visits with your dentist to address any underlying dental issues, such as cavities or gum disease, which can contribute to bad breath.

4. Consult a Specialist: Given your history of respiratory issues and gastrointestinal problems, consider consulting an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or a gastroenterologist. They can evaluate for conditions like sinusitis or GERD that may be contributing to your symptoms.

5. Manage Stress: Since you mentioned that stress can lead to physical symptoms, incorporating stress management techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises may help improve your overall well-being.

6. Medication Review: If you are taking medications that may contribute to dry mouth, discuss alternatives with your healthcare provider.

In conclusion, chronic bad breath can stem from a variety of causes, including reduced saliva production, oral hygiene practices, gastrointestinal issues, and respiratory infections. By addressing these factors through improved oral hygiene, hydration, and consultation with healthcare professionals, you can work towards alleviating your symptoms and improving your quality of life.

Similar Q&A

Persistent Bad Breath: When It's Not Just Oral Hygiene Issues

Hello, Doctor: I have had a problem with bad breath since my student days. In recent years, I have been very diligent about dental hygiene due to treatment for periodontal disease, and I have received recognition from my treating dentist. However, the issue of bad breath persists...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: If you have been taking medications for chronic conditions for a long time, it is advisable to take out the medication leaflet and read it carefully, as many medications can cause taste abnormalities or lead to unusual odors as side effects. Additionally, you may consider ...

Understanding Bad Breath: Causes, Solutions, and Dietary Tips

Hello Doctor: I would like to ask, if I regularly get my teeth cleaned but still experience chronic bad breath, could it be primarily due to periodontal disease? Are there any methods to improve this condition or foods that can help reduce bad breath? Thank you.

Dr. Yang Zhiren reply Dentistry
Hello: The causes of bad breath: periodontal disease is the primary reason. If there are no issues with periodontal disease upon examination, then check whether the tongue surface is being brushed regularly, as this can also contribute to unpleasant odors. If neither of these con...

Overcoming Chronic Bad Breath: Seeking Help for a Long-Standing Issue

Hello Doctor: I am 25 years old this year, but I have been suffering from halitosis for nearly ten years. I have always been too embarrassed and lacked the courage to see a doctor. However, as I am about to graduate and enter the workforce, I feel compelled to seek help. I would ...

Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
There are many reasons for halitosis in young people, including poor oral hygiene, consumption of foods such as garlic and onions, and various diseases such as liver disease, gastritis, and kidney disease. Additionally, insufficient water intake and low saliva production can cont...

How to Effectively Improve Bad Breath: Tips from Dental Experts

Doctor: How can I improve bad breath? I always feel like my mouth has a strange odor. Could you please reply quickly? Thank you!

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Halitosis is primarily caused by the breakdown of amino acids or fatty acids by Gram-negative anaerobic bacteria in the oral cavity, resulting in the production of volatile sulfur compounds, including hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, and dimethyl sulfide. These amino acids or ...