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

Annoying halitosis?

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 like to describe my situation and ask for your advice on which specialty I should consult: 1.
I easily develop a coated tongue; 2.
Chewing gum does not help; (I used to have cavities because I didn't have access to sugar-free gum, resulting in three decayed teeth) 3.
My breath still smells even right after brushing my teeth; (I brush several times a day) 4.
I have already addressed my cavity issues; 5.
I feel that my entire oral cavity, including my tongue and throat, has an unpleasant odor; 6.
I am in a state of halitosis 24 hours a day.
I am afraid to speak, which has negatively impacted my relationships.
I hesitate to ask teachers for help with my studies, and classmates think I am antisocial and get frustrated when I only shake my head in response to their questions.
I keep my lips tightly closed all day and am even afraid to smile...
The suffering from halitosis for ten years is unbearable! I have thought about suicide several times! Some classmates who were closer to me have noticed my severe halitosis and eventually distanced themselves, and some have even told others about my condition...
I need to muster the courage to resolve this! Please tell me which clinic I should visit.
I would be extremely grateful!

ami, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/06/01

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 contribute to bad breath.
Increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables while reducing fried foods can help improve the condition.
Furthermore, it is important to undergo relevant liver, kidney, and gastric function tests at a hospital.

Reply Date: 2001/06/01

More Info

Dear Patient,
I want to commend you for your courage in reaching out about a deeply personal issue that has affected your life for nearly a decade. Chronic bad breath, or halitosis, can be an incredibly distressing condition, impacting not only your physical health but also your emotional well-being and social interactions. It’s important to understand that you are not alone in this struggle, and there are effective ways to address it.

Based on the symptoms you've described, it seems that your halitosis may be related to several factors, including the presence of tongue coating, potential oral hygiene issues, and possibly underlying medical conditions. Here’s a breakdown of your symptoms and some recommendations on how to proceed:
1. Tongue Coating: The presence of a thick layer of coating on your tongue can harbor bacteria and food particles, leading to bad breath. Regularly brushing your tongue or using a tongue scraper can help reduce this coating.
2. Oral Hygiene: You mentioned that you brush your teeth multiple times a day, which is excellent. However, it’s crucial to ensure that you are using the correct technique and that you are also flossing daily. Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth, areas that a toothbrush may not reach effectively.

3. Gum Health: Gum disease can also contribute to bad breath. If you have not had a dental check-up recently, I recommend visiting a dentist for a thorough examination of your gums and overall oral health.

4. Underlying Conditions: Chronic bad breath can sometimes be a sign of underlying health issues, such as sinus infections, gastrointestinal problems, or even systemic conditions like diabetes. Given your symptoms, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate you for these conditions.

5. Specialist Referrals: I recommend starting with a visit to a dentist, particularly one who specializes in periodontics or oral medicine. They can assess your oral health comprehensively and provide treatments or referrals as needed. If the dentist rules out dental issues, you may then consider seeing an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist to check for any sinus or throat-related issues that might be contributing to your halitosis.

6. Mental Health Support: Given the emotional toll that this issue has taken on you, it may also be beneficial to speak with a mental health professional. They can provide support and coping strategies to help you manage the anxiety and social challenges that have arisen from your condition.

7. Lifestyle Adjustments: In addition to professional help, consider making some lifestyle changes. Staying hydrated, avoiding certain foods (like garlic and onions), and quitting smoking (if applicable) can significantly improve your breath.
8. Regular Follow-ups: Once you begin treatment, regular follow-ups with your dentist and any other specialists will be essential to monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments to your care plan.

I understand that taking the first step to seek help can be daunting, but it is a crucial move towards improving your quality of life. Remember, addressing this issue is not just about physical health; it’s about reclaiming your confidence and social interactions. You deserve to feel comfortable and happy in your own skin.

Please take care, and I wish you the best on your journey to overcoming this challenge. You have the strength to make this change, and there are professionals ready to support you every step of the way.

Best regards.

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