Bad breath despite brushing twice? 5 diseases it can indicate

We all have been there when we have bad breath during an important moment like an interview or on a date, and trust me, you would not wish it on anybody.

Bad breath is medically known as halitosis and it can be an embarrassing and persistent issue despite our efforts to maintain oral hygiene.

While brushing twice a day is an important step in dealing with oral odour, constant bad breath might indicate underlying health issues beyond just poor dental hygiene.

Here are 5 diseases that can result in bad breath.

Respiratory infections such as sinusitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia can lead to bad breath. When these infections occur, bacteria multiply in the respiratory tract, producing foul-smelling compounds that are released through exhalation. A study published in the Journal of Oral Microbiology found that people with respiratory infections had higher levels of volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), which are responsible for bad breath.

Digestive disorders like acid reflux, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and stomach ulcers can contribute to halitosis. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, leading to an unpleasant taste and odour in the mouth. A study conducted by the University of Adelaide discovered that individuals with GERD were more likely to experience halitosis compared to those without the condition.

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterised by high blood sugar levels, which can lead to various complications, including bad breath. The presence of ketones in the breath of individuals with uncontrolled.

diabetes can cause a distinctive fruity odour known as “acetone breath.” Research published in the Journal of Diabetes Investigation confirms the correlation between diabetes and halitosis, emphasising the importance of managing blood sugar levels to alleviate bad breath.

Kidney disease affects the body’s ability to filter waste products from the blood, leading to an accumulation of toxins in the bloodstream. These toxins can cause an ammonia-like odour in the breath, commonly referred to as “uremic breath.” A study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, found a significant association between uremic breath and kidney disease, highlighting the importance of early detection and management of renal issues.

Liver dysfunction, such as cirrhosis or fatty liver disease, can result in bad breath due to the accumulation of toxins in the body. These toxins are usually metabolised by the liver but can build up when the liver is not functioning correctly, leading to a foul odour in the breath. A study published in the Journal of Breath Research suggests that individuals with liver disease exhibit distinctive breath profiles, indicating a potential link between hepatic dysfunction and halitosis.