Bad Breath

Image by play4smee via Flickr

People having bad breath, many a times do not know themselves that they are having bad breath. But, those who know it hesitate to mix in the gatherings. Medically it is called as halitosis. There are several causes of halitosis. Commonly it is due to (a) gingivitis, (b) Tonsillitis, (c) Cancer of tongue, (d) Oral sepsis, (e) Septic lungs diseases like (i) Lungs abscess and (ii) Bronchiectasis etc. Another condition requires special mention is atrophic rhinitis; where first the patient is aware of bad breath and not others, later on he becomes unaware of bad breath whereas others become aware of it. In this condition, there is gradual death of smell buds which receive the smell of something. Amongst these, cancer of tongue, lungs abscess and bronchiectasis are more serious conditions. This halitosis is due to growth of anaerobic bacteria.
A careful examination will reveal the diagnosis. Cancer of tongue will need surgery, radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. Gingivitis is treated by drugs. Lungs abscess and bronchiectasis may need specialized drug treatment with periodic review by x-rays, and may sometimes need surgery.Specialized treatment is required for atrophic rhinitis.