Link between Halitosis and Sinus Infection

 At the The Center For Breath Treatment we see many patients with many different causes to their halitosis condition. One of the top culprits of halitosis, or bad breath, is issues relating to sinuses. Sinus infections and sinusitis is caused by the excess mucus that develops from the infection. The mucus may cause an unpleasant odor and is released as people exhale through their open mouths or nose. People with sinusitis can feel pressure, pain and tenderness in their faces. Intense headaches are also common. Individuals may feel tired, dizzy and the inner ear may feel congested and ache. People may feel pain around their teeth, gums and jaw. This discomfort can be caused by inflammation in the sinuses causes them to swell. The swelling causes fever and nausea for the individual.

Postnasal Drip

The symptom of postnasal drip is often present during a sinus infection and can often remain after the sinusitis is cured. Postnasal drip is caused by excessive mucus collecting in the nose and throat. The excessive mucus can be deposited on the tongue and this can produce an environment which produces a halitosis condition. A tickling feeling in the throat will often cause people to cough. Additional signs of postnasal drip are a thick mucous like feeling in the back of the throat. People often spit mucus in an attempt to clear the throat. A runny nose or rhinorrhea may also be present with a sinus infection. Many different conditions typically coexist to create halitosis.

Visiting a Physician

The symptom of halitosis is embarrassing and people should see a halitosis specialist about this condition. A physician with a specialty of ears, nose and throat is often the best choice for diagnosing and treating sinus problems and are also the health care professionals that primarily work with patients who have halitosis. The sinuses, throat, nose, tongue and other mouth parts will be examined to determine if they are related to a bad breath condition. The tonsils and adenoid glands will be inspected closely for signs of infection. If there is a sign of infection a prescription for antibiotics may be ordered to cure the sinusitis. Curing the sinus infection will eventually reduce the excess production of mucus and when there is less mucus the postnasal drip will improve and this can lead to improvement in the halitosis condition.

Home Treatment for Halitosis

Saline sinus rinses can be purchased over-the-counter and used to clear the mucus from nasal passages. And a decongestant can relieve congestion in the sinus cavities. Also proper dental care can also assist in eliminating pungent breath. People should brush their teeth several times a day with the best electrical toothbrush. Using mouthwash, breath spray and special mints can temporarily reduce breath odor. People should continue to drink adequate amounts of water and nutritious meals. The halitosis or bad breath condition gradually improves with proper treatment.

About the author: Dr. Anthony Dailley is a practicing dentist that specializes in halitosis treatment. He has been practicing since 1981 and graduated from San Francisco State University with a degree in Cell & Molecular Biology, and obtained his dental degree from the Pacific School of Dentistry. Dr. Dailley founded the Center for Breath Treatment in the San Francisco Bay Area and conducts research on curing halitosis. Dr. Dailley has also been a founder in a biotech company called NovaBay Pharmaceuticals and on their board of directors from 1997 -2014.

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