What Your Breath May Say About Your Health
This article was originally published on webmd.com
Snoring
Your mouth can get dry if you snore or sleep with it open, and that makes it an even better home to the bacteria that cause “morning breath.” You’re more likely to snore if you sleep on your back, so it can help to sleep on your side. Food in your teeth also can help bacteria grow -- a good brush and floss before bed can cut down on that.
Gum Disease
If your breath has a metallic smell, you might have bacteria growing under your gum line -- that can lead to inflammation and even infection. Your dentist might call it periodontitis. You’re more likely to have it if you smoke or don’t brush and floss regularly. Gum disease also can run in families.
Acid Reflux
This condition makes stomach acid flow the wrong way, back into the tube that connects your throat to your stomach (your esophagus). It can give your breath a sour smell and bring up bits of food or liquid into your mouth. The acid also can damage your throat and mouth, and that can make a breeding ground for more smelly bacteria.
Diabetes
If you have this condition, fruity breath can be a sign that your body is using fat for fuel instead of sugar (glucose). That probably means you're running very low on the hormone insulin, and you should call your doctor.
H. Pylori
This is a kind of bacteria linked to stomach cancer and ulcers. It can cause stinky breath, and you may have nausea, heartburn, stomachache, or indigestion, too. Your doctor can test you for it -- many of these symptoms go away when the bacteria
Respiratory Infections