Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, can sometimes originate from the stomach rather than the mouth. This condition can have several causes and can significantly impact social interactions and self-confidence.
Oral B is here to help you learn more about the causes of bad breath from the stomach, along with how to treat halitosis.
Causes of Bad breath from stomach
You may be wondering, what causes bad breath from the stomach? Bad breath from the stomach can stem from various gastrointestinal conditions, each with its own set of symptoms and effects:
1. Bowel obstruction:
One stomach condition that causes bad breath is bowel obstruction. When the intestines are blocked, food cannot move properly through the digestive tract, leading to foul-smelling breath.
Other symptoms may include severe abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and vomiting.
2. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)1:
GERD causes stomach acid to flow back into the oesophagus, leading to heartburn and regurgitation of stomach contents, which is why acid reflux and bad breath can be linked.
Other symptoms may include heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and chronic cough.
3. Irritable bowel syndrome and bad breath (IBS):
IBS is a gastrointestinal disorder characterised by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. It can also cause bad breath due to alterations in gut flora and digestive processes.
Other symptoms may include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, and constipation.
4. Kidney disease:
Kidney problems and bad breath can also be associated; kidney disease can lead to the buildup of toxins in the body, which can cause bad breath.
Other symptoms may include fatigue, swelling in the legs and ankles, changes in urine output, and nausea.
5. Excessive gut bacteria:
Bad breath from gut issues could be caused by an imbalance in gut bacteria, which can result in the overgrowth of odour-producing bacteria, leading to malodorous breath.
Other symptoms may include bloating, gas, diarrhoea, and abdominal discomfort.
6. Infection in the digestive tract:
Infections in the digestive tract, such as bacterial or parasitic infections, can produce foul-smelling gases that contribute to bad breath.
Other symptoms may vary depending on the type of infection but can include abdominal pain, fever, diarrhoea, and vomiting.
7. Helicobacter pylori infection:
H. pylori is a type of bacteria that can infect the stomach lining, leading to gastritis and ulcers. Bad breath can be a symptom of this infection.
Other symptoms may include abdominal pain, nausea, bloating, and loss of appetite.2
8. Liver disease:
Liver disease can result in the buildup of toxins in the body, which can cause bad breath.
Other symptoms may include jaundice, abdominal pain, fatigue, and swelling in the abdomen.
9. Gallbladder issues:
Gallbladder problems, such as gallstones or inflammation, can cause bad breath by disrupting the digestive process.
Other symptoms may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever.3
How to Stop Bad Breath from Gut
If you think that your bad breath stems from a gastrointestinal condition, consult a doctor or gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation and a personalised treatment plan.
Gastroenterologists specialise in diagnosing and managing gut disorders and offer a range of interventions to address the underlying cause of bad breath. Treatment options include simple solutions such as probiotics in your diet, medications to manage your symptoms, and, in some cases, surgical procedures.4
Bad Breath from Stomach Home Remedies
There are some home remedies you can try to alleviate bad breath from the stomach:
Practice Good Oral Hygiene: brushing your teeth and tongue, flossing daily, and using mouthwash can help remove food particles and bacteria that contribute to bad breath.
Use Gum: sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria in the mouth.
Avoid Triggers: identify and avoid foods or beverages that exacerbate bad breath, common foods that can cause bad breath include garlic, onions, and coffee.
Stop Smoking: smoking contributes to dry mouth and can exacerbate bad breath.
FAQs
Can a stomach ulcer cause bad breath?
Yes, in some cases, stomach ulcers can cause bad breath due to the presence of Helicobacter pylori bacteria.
What does bad breath from GERD smell like?
Bad breath from GERD may have a sour or acidic odour, accompanied by symptoms like heartburn and chest pain.
What to take for bad breath from the stomach?
Some home remedies, such as practising good oral hygiene or using sugar-free gum, can provide temporary relief. However, if bad breath persists as an ongoing issue, it is essential to consult a gastroenterologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.