Persistent bad breath: a warning sign of many underlying medical conditions.

Many people suffer from persistent bad breath, despite trying various methods to eliminate the odor. In fact, bad breath is not just a matter of oral hygiene; it can be a symptom of systemic disorders such as ear, nose, and throat diseases, digestive problems, endocrine disorders, lung diseases, or even nutritional imbalances.

A holistic approach to treatment—coordination across multiple specialties—is essential to address the root cause of the problem and to detect more serious conditions early.

Losing confidence due to persistent bad breath.

Suffering and a lack of confidence due to bad breath, despite regular oral hygiene, is a feeling many people experience. On a forum called "Hatred of Bad Breath" with 10,000 members, many individuals share their "hard-to-talk-about" struggles.

One postpartum woman suffered from bad breath, and brushing her teeth three times a day didn't help, causing her to feel self-conscious and hesitant to socialize. Another member confided that she herself noticed the foul odor in her breath, "every time I go anywhere, I feel guilty towards others"...

People with bad breath share that they've tried many methods, such as brushing their teeth multiple times a day—even to the point of wearing down the tooth enamel—using mouthwash, chewing mints, and applying folk remedies, but the odor persists. Haunted by their bad breath, they often cover their mouths when speaking and hesitate to express their opinions in group meetings. They miss opportunities because they create an unpleasant impression during interviews and lack confidence when communicating with partners and clients. Many even lack the courage to go on dates…

Bad breath causes many people to avoid social interaction and withdraw due to feelings of self-consciousness.

Photo: Freepik

Bad breath: a warning sign of underlying health problems.

According to Dr. Nguyen Thanh Tung, Head of the Department of Dentistry & Maxillofacial Surgery at FV Hospital, the causes of bad breath can be classified according to the 80/20 principle, meaning that 80% of the causes of bad breath originate from the mouth. This is the most common group of causes, including gingivitis, periodontitis, plaque on the surface of the tongue, tooth decay, dry mouth, etc.

Dr. Nguyen Thanh Tung advises patients on dental issues.

Photo: FV

The remaining 20% ​​of cases of bad breath originate from non-oral causes; this group is often overlooked and requires a more thorough diagnostic approach.

According to Dr. Vo Cong Minh, Head of the Ear, Nose, and Throat Department at FV Hospital, ear, nose, and throat diseases that cause inflammation can lead to bad breath: "Bacteria develop in mucous secretions, creating foul odors. For example, sinusitis, where mucus drains down the throat, can cause bad breath. Tonsillitis is also a very common cause of bad breath, especially in cases where the tonsils contain cheesy material… In addition, chronic pharyngitis can also cause bad breath."

Dr. Vo Cong Minh, Head of the ENT Department at FV Hospital, examines a patient.

Bad breath can also be caused by digestive diseases such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, gastritis with Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection, and colitis. According to Dr. Bui Nhuan Quy, Head of the Gastroenterology & Hepatology Department at FV Hospital, after successfully treating the above-mentioned digestive diseases, patients reported that their breath also no longer had an unpleasant odor.

MSc-Dr. Bui Nhuan Quy provides consultation on treating bad breath caused by gastrointestinal diseases.

Photo: FV

Dietary habits can also be an unexpected cause of bad breath. According to Dr. Nguyen Viet Quynh Thu, Head of the Nutrition & Dietetics Department at FV Hospital: "A very popular diet nowadays is the Keto (low carbohydrate) diet... When you eat very limited carbohydrates, the body enters a state of ketosis, burning fat instead of carbohydrates for energy, and producing ketones, including acetone - a substance that can be released through the breath and cause odor, known as 'ketone breath'."

A multidisciplinary approach to address the root cause of bad breath.

At FV Hospital, persistent bad breath is considered a medical problem requiring comprehensive and thorough diagnosis and treatment. FV applies a multidisciplinary approach, closely coordinating between the Departments of Dentistry, Otolaryngology, Gastroenterology, Nutrition, Endocrinology, and Clinical Psychology to treat each case individually.

Patients diagnosed with bad breath will be referred to the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery for examination and to rule out 80% of oral causes first. The doctor will treat any oral diseases and provide detailed instructions on how to properly care for and maintain oral hygiene to ensure optimal oral health and prevent problems causing bad breath from the oral cavity.

If no problems are detected in the oral cavity, the patient is referred to relevant specialists: an ENT specialist for endoscopy to look for inflammatory foci causing bad breath or structural abnormalities in the nose that can easily cause fluid buildup; a gastroenterologist for gastroscopy and H. pylori testing; or an endocrinologist for blood tests to check blood sugar levels, liver function, and kidney function.

If all physical causes have been ruled out, FV's Nutrition & Dietetics team will assess the patient's eating habits, focusing on diets such as low-carb or Keto – which can easily produce ketones that cause a strong, burnt-smelling odor in the breath. Dietary adjustments, nutritional balance, and, if necessary, a structured weight loss plan will be tailored to each individual.

MSc. Dr. Nguyen Viet Quynh Thu provides consultation to patients.

Photo: FV

The pressure from bad breath can lead to "pseudohyperspiration" or "hyperesthesia." This condition causes anxiety, low self-esteem, and avoidance of social interaction, requiring intervention from psychological professionals. Therefore, FV always pays attention to the psychological aspect for patients. In cases suspected of having "pseudohyperspiration" or "hyperesthesia," a psychologist will provide support.

Persistent bad breath is a complex medical issue. Instead of feeling self-conscious and struggling with temporary solutions, consider it an important health sign and seek professional examination and consultation for a thorough diagnosis and treatment. To schedule an appointment for bad breath, please contact the Department of Dentistry and Maxillofacial Surgery, FV Hospital via hotline 028 3511 3333 .

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/hoi-mieng-dai-dang-dau-hieu-canh-bao-nhieu-benh-ly-tiem-an-185250730093336786.htm