Is Bad Breath a Sign of Illness?
Health issues could cause bad breath. This is important to know and understand. Sometimes you think brushing your teeth twice a day is enough, but the issues with bad breath continue. If you have changed toothpaste, started flossing regularly, use mouthwash, and bad breath does not go away, it might be time to consult a dentist. Many people want to avoid going to the dentist for different reasons, but having a good relationship with your dentist and visiting at least twice a year could help identify medical issues that are causing your bad breath. Identifying the medical reason for your bad breath early will help fix the problem quickly and avoid further complications.
What medical reasons could be causing bad breath?
Having continuous bad breath could be caused by a medical issue. Bad breath is caused mostly by sulfur-producing bacteria in your tongue and throat, but this is not always the case. It is important to pay attention to continuous bad breath, especially if you have already tried regular methods to fix the problem. Changes in diet and staying hydrated also help. What illnesses could be causing your continuous bad breath?
Identifying the causes of bad breath caused by an illness
- Metabolic disorders: These disorders alter the distribution of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in your body. Diabetes is one of the most recognized metabolic disorders. Others are hemochromatosis and Gaucher disease. These affect your insulin production, iron absorption, and create problems with your spleen and liver.
- Sinus-related problems: Post-nasal drip, sinus infections, and lung infections can cause bad breath.
- Stomach issues: Acid reflux, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation are examples of gastrointestinal issues that can cause bad breath.
- Kidney disease: When the kidneys cannot filter waste products properly, it can lead to foul smells exhaled through the lungs. Kidney disease can also cause dry mouth, which allows bacteria to grow and cause bad breath.
- Liver disease: Bad breath caused by liver disease is called fetor hepaticus. If your liver is not working properly, it cannot filter out toxins. This will allow sulfur-containing compounds to build up in your blood and be exhaled.
- Other medical conditions: Other medical conditions, like tonsillitis, some blood disorders, and, on rare occasions, certain cancers, can also cause bad breath.
- Consult a doctor: If your dentist has done all the proper exams and recommends that you consult a doctor, please follow through with your dentist’s recommendations.
Reach out for support
If you have concerns about bad breath, make sure you are brushing properly with toothpaste twice a day. You should also floss after brushing and use a mouthwash to rinse off any residue of food or bacteria. Check your diet and limit your alcohol consumption since these could also be causes of bad breath. Make sure you stay hydrated. If you suspect that your bad breath might be caused by an illness, please contact your dentist as soon as possible. If you have any questions or concerns, we are here to help. Please reach out to schedule an appointment.