An upper respiratory infection is a contagious infection of the structures of the upper respiratory tract, which includes the sinuses, nasal passages, pharynx, and larynx. Common causes of an upper respiratory infection include bacteria and viruses such as rhinoviruses, group A streptococci, influenza, respiratory syncytial, whooping cough, diphtheria, and Epstein-Barr. Examples of symptoms of upper respiratory infection include sneezing, sore throat, cough, fever, and nasal congestion. Treatment of upper respiratory infections are based upon the cause. Generally, viral infections are treated symptomatically with over-the-counter (OTC) medication and home remedies.
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.
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Other symptoms of tonsil stones may include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, and a persistent cough. Some people may also experience a sensation of something stuck in the back of their throat.
Halitosis is defined as a chronic bad breath that mint and mouthwash can’t solve, as mentioned above. Also known as fetor oris, halitosis can make an affected person subconscious and they feel reluctant to hang out with larger groups of people because they are embarrassed by their bad breath. It is estimated that 1 in 4 people have halitosis on a regular basis[i]. According to the latest statistics, an estimated 25% of the world population is having trouble with this annoying symptom. After tooth decay and gum disease, halitosis is the third most common reason people seek dental care[ii]. As should you if you ever notice that your toothpaste or mouthwash does not seem to win the fight over that awful bad breath.
The commonalities between these causes are that the salivary glands are negatively affected, inhibiting the production of saliva. Saliva keeps the mouth moist and washes away any food particles or bacteria from the surface of the teeth. Without the presence of saliva, bacteria or food stays on the surface of the teeth and can start to produce an odour.
Gastrointestinal problems, such as constipation or bowel obstruction, can also lead to bad breath. When waste products build up in the digestive system, they can produce foul-smelling gases that are released through the mouth.
Chronic sinus issues can also increase the risk of tonsil stones. When you have sinus problems, your sinuses produce more mucus, which can drip down the back of your throat and contribute to the formation of tonsil stones.
Bad breath in smokers is caused by the tobacco itself—the lungs retain a measure of the tobacco smoke for a while after the cigarette has been extinguished and these chemicals remain in the mouth, making a greater case for halitosis.
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help balance the bacteria in our mouths and prevent bad breath. The oral microbiome is a complex ecosystem of bacteria, and an imbalance in this ecosystem can lead to bad breath.
The first thing many people do if they suspect they have bad breath is to reach for the mouthwash. The mint or clove flavouring does of course, disguise the smell for a short time, and many mouthwashes also contain antiseptic. The idea is to eliminate the bacteria that leads to foul-smelling compounds. For a time this can work. But there has been some debate concerning containing alcohol and whether it does or doesn’t exacerbate dehydration. A very dry mouth can cause breath to smell worse.
In addition to brushing and flossing, tongue scraping is an often overlooked step in oral hygiene. The tongue harbors bacteria that can contribute to bad breath. Using a tongue scraper or gently brushing your tongue with your toothbrush can help remove these bacteria and freshen your breath.
Tonsil stones symptoms may not show if they are small, although large stones do show symptoms, including-
Bad breath can also be caused by certain health conditions, such as dry mouth or diabetes.
How to tell if your breath smells bad
Maintain good oral hygiene: brush your teeth after every meal, paying attention to the interproximal spaces and tongue, and complement brushing with flossing.Use mouthwash to kill bacteria and temporarily stop bad breath.Keep saliva flowing in the mouth by drinking plenty of water or stimulating saliva with foods that require a lot of chewing.Adjust your diet and avoid foods that cause bad breath or are very sugary, as these are closely linked to tooth decay, which can in turn lead to smelly breath.Reduce or eliminate tobacco and alcohol consumption.Visit the dentist once or twice a year to prevent the onset of oral conditions.Have a professional hygiene once or twice a year to remove plaque from your mouth that can lead to tooth decay or periodontal disease.
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There’s no one specific “bad breath smell” because there are a variety of different causes for bad breath. Some common causes are: