Causes of Bad Breath: Sinus Problems

Did you know that of all the causes of bad breath, sinus problems are some of the most common? This is absolutely true, and surprises some people who think that chronic bad breath comes only from poor hygiene. This is not the case. In fact, there are a number of causes of bad breath and breath-related problems that really do not have anything to do with how well you brush your teeth or clean your tongue. Sinus problems are one of these causes. This article will explore how sinus conditions can give you chronic bad breath and how you can mitigate those annoying symptoms. This is vitally important in finding a bad breath cure.

Have you ever had a runny nose? What about a headache from being congested all day long? If so, then you have had sinusitis, which is an inflammation of the nasal cavity. The nasal cavity is essentially an open space inside your skull underneath your nose that takes in air that you inhale, filters it, warms it to body temperature, and sends it on its way to your lungs. Connected to your nasal cavity are sinus cavities, which are also open spaces whose purpose is as of yet still unknown. What we do know is that bacteria can get into the openings that lead from the sinus cavities into the nasal cavities and cause an infection. This results in sinusitis.

After bacteria (or allergens if you frequently have allergies) infiltrates your nasal cavity and infects you, mucus starts to build up as the body’s response to an invader. The problem arises when mucus accumulates quickly and in abundance to counter the infection. When this occurs, the excess mucus can run down into your throat and mouth. Since this mucus contains bacteria, and bacteria give off odor-causing waste products called volatile sulfur compounds, unpleasant odors begin to enter your mouth. This is what you and I know as bad breath.

The bad breath in question is called halitosis, and it affects millions every year. A lot of people get it as a result of being sick from various illnesses like sinusitis, and it will not go away until the illness itself passes. You can wait for it to disappear on its own (usually within two to four weeks for most cases of acute sinusitis), or, you can get treatment for it.

If you have halitosis from your sinus problems and want to mitigate it and other symptoms of sinusitis, there are a couple of options for you. The first is to take medicine that will provide you a bit of relief. If your sinusitis is due to allergies, then you can take an antihistamine. You can also take nasal decongestants and nasal sprays that can clear away some of that mucus and gives you a chance to breathe a little better. Also, to stay hydrated and deal with the bacteria, drink plenty of green tea (which is great for a sick body and is antibacterial to boot).

If your condition is worse than most cases, or you just want relief, then you may have to see a doctor. He or she will invariably put you on antibiotics (if it is due to bacteria), which could cause your sinus infection to clear up quicker than if you waited for it to run its course. And naturally, with the cure comes relief from the halitosis that pesters you and will not go away. So, in conclusion, to end sickness-caused bad breath, sinus problems must be eliminated pronto.