Halitosis is the medical terminology for bad breath. It can be due to multiple physiological or psychological causes. The most common cases of halitosis occur due to certain ingredients in the food that have a strong smell. These ingredients include garlic, onion, cheese, alcohol, etc. Bad breath caused by these substances is short-lasting and can be lessened by employing various techniques. However, bad breath caused by any physiological abnormality or psychological reason can be long-lasting and affects your social life if it persists consistently.
Tonsil stones are common. Several people get them without even knowing that they have them. They are tiny lumps of hard material that form in the tonsils. Tonsil stones are generally not harmful or painful.
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The reasons for bad breath range from the not-so-bad (you had a slice of garlic pizza) to the more urgent (you’ve got an infection). Understanding some of the most common causes of bad breath can help you work with your dentist and hygienist to put together a plan to keep unpleasant mouth odors away.
Certain medical conditions can also cause bad breath from the throat. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition where stomach acid travels up the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms. This acid reflux can also lead to bad breath as the stomach acid reaches the throat.
Health Topics Symptoms and Signs Slideshows Images Quizzes Medical Author: Jerry R. Balentine, DO, FACEP Medical Editor: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD Facts Facts on Bad Breath (Halitosis) Causes What Causes Bad Breath? Symptoms What Are the Symptoms of Bad Breath?When to See a Doctor for Bad Breath Diagnosis Diagnosis of Bad Breath 6 Home Remedies What Are 6 Home Remedies for Bad Breath? Treatment What Is the Treatment for Bad Breath?Follow-Up for Bad Breath Prevention How Do I Prevent Bad Breath? Prognosis What Is the Prognosis for Bad Breath? Bad breath (halitosis) can be caused by a variety of things, including diet, medication, poor oral hygiene, and diseases or conditions.
No, halitosis is not contagious. Since halitosis is caused by bacteria in the mouth, it should not be passed from person to person.
Ultimately, this will remove the stones. After you have taken them out, rinse the mouth thoroughly to wash off any debris. Make a note that you don’t use this technique for large stones as this increases the risk of bleeding. If you are having bad breath due to tonsil stones, then consume spices that have aromatic essence. This will help mask the breath odor. Some of the aromatic spices that you can eat after a meal to cleanse the palate are-
Sinus infections and allergies can cause post-nasal drip, which is when excess mucus drips down the back of the throat. This can lead to a foul odor and bad breath. Treating the underlying sinus infection or allergies can help alleviate bad breath.
Pneumonia – an infection in one of both lungs; it accounts for 16% of all deaths under the age of five. About 920,136 children died in 2015 due to pneumonia[v]. The potentially lethal condition is caused by viruses, bacteria or fungi. Bearing in mind that pneumonia involves air sacs in the lungs that become inflamed they become filled up with pus and phlegm which are odiferous when a patient coughs. Constant coughing takes its toll on the breath. Bad breath can be the reason why you are asking for professional help and getting your pneumonia diagnosed at the same time, increasing your chances of survival by the minute.
Certain foods and drinks can also contribute to bad breath. Foods like garlic and onions contain volatile compounds that are absorbed into the bloodstream and then exhaled through the lungs. Coffee and alcohol can also dry out the mouth, leading to a decrease in saliva production and an increase in bacteria growth.
There are several natural remedies that may help alleviate the symptoms of tonsil stones and halitosis. These remedies can be used in conjunction with medical treatments or as a preventive measure.
Studies have pointed out that people suffering from anxiety often breathe using their mouths while asleep. Stress also results in dry mouth and acid reflux further causing halitosis. Thus, depending on the symptoms, the dentist or physician might recommend the patient to opt for an online anxiety severity test before starting the treatment for halitosis.
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MedicineNet does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information. oral health center/oral health a-z list/bad breath article Medical Author: John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP Medical Editor: Jerry R. Balentine, DO, FACEP Introduction What is bad breath? Causes What are the possible causes of bad breath? Symptoms What symptoms may be associated with bad breath? Diagnosis How do healthcare professionals diagnose halitosis? Treatment How do you treat bad halitosis? Prognosis What is the prognosis for people with halitosis? Halitosis, or bad breath, can be cured with the treatment of the underlying causes.
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Managing respiratory-related bad breath involves treating the underlying respiratory condition. This may involve taking prescribed medications, using nasal sprays or rinses to clear out mucus, or practicing good respiratory hygiene by covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.