Halitosis, more commonly known as bad breath, is a frustrating issue that can stem from a variety of sources. While most bad breath originates in the mouth itself (intraoral), it can sometimes be traced back to the stomach (extraoral).
This article will focus on bad breath that comes from the stomach, exploring its potential causes, how to manage it, and available treatments. It’s important to note that if you’re concerned about bad breath from your stomach, you should seek professional medical advice for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
The connection between digestion and bad breath
Believe it or not, digestion and bad breath are closely linked. Here’s how.
How digestion works
Digestion starts in your mouth, where enzymes in your saliva begin to break down food. The food moves into your stomach, where it’s broken down even further. From there, nutrients are absorbed into your bloodstream in the small intestine. Whatever’s left goes to the large intestine.
Digestive imbalance and bad breath
If your digestion is off, it can cause bacterial imbalances in your gut and mouth, which can cause you to have bad breath.
Bad breath can be a sign of digestive issues such as acid reflux, constipation, or an overgrowth of bacteria in your intestines. Poor digestion, dysbiosis (an imbalance of bacteria), and stomach ulcers can also lead to bad breath.
Common causes of bad breath from the stomach
Halitosis can be caused by a number of things related to your digestive system, including the following.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD, which is also known as acid reflux, allows stomach acid to travel backward into your esophagus. This can lead to tooth erosion, halitosis, and a host of other problems in your mouth. GERD can also send foul-smelling gases up into your esophagus, leading to bad breath. It’s estimated that roughly a billion people around the world suffer from GERD.
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection
The bacteria H. pylori can cause stomach ulcers, and it’s also been linked to bad breath. About two-thirds of stomach ulcers and duodenal ulcers may be caused by H. pylori. One study showed that treating this infection can cure chronic halitosis.
Other digestive disorders
Several other conditions, such as Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), can contribute to bad breath.
Kidney disease can also lead to stomach-related halitosis.
Constipation
When you’re constipated, waste and toxins can build up in your body, resulting in bad breath.
Managing and Treating Stomach-Related Bad Breath
If your bad breath is originating in your stomach, treating the underlying condition is key.
Managing GERD
If acid reflux is the source of your bad breath, lifestyle changes, such as changing your diet, losing weight, and quitting smoking, can reduce the amount of stomach acid your body produces. Medications can also help.
Treating H. pylori Infection
If a bacterial infection is the cause, antibiotics are the usual treatment. It’s important to take the full course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better.
Managing Digestive Disorders
If you think you may have a digestive disorder, a gastroenterologist can help you manage it.
Promoting Regular Bowel Movements
If constipation is contributing to your bad breath, try to eat more fiber, drink more water, and get regular exercise. Over-the-counter laxatives can also help in some cases.
In Conclusion
If you think your bad breath stems from your stomach, it’s important to figure out what’s going on and treat the underlying cause.
See a healthcare professional for a diagnosis and treatment plan that’s right for you. With the right medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and good oral hygiene, you can get fresher breath and a healthier digestive system.