Is it possible to get halitosis because of gastritis?

Question

Hello doctor,

I want to ask about halitosis. I already went to the dentist, and the dentist said that the problem is not in the mouth, and it could be in my stomach, so here I am. I hope you can help me because I am at my wits' end right now.

How do I know if it is in the stomach? What should I do? I do not think it is acid reflux because I have already taken PPIs for more than one month, and it seems to be still there.

Please help me.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Halitosis or bad breath usually originates from the oral or nasal passages. The cause of it is bacterial decay of residual food and debris. The most common causes of halitosis are periodontal diseases, dental caries, oral cavity infection, and a coated or uncleaned tongue or decreased salivation.

Other causes which are thought of after ruling out the above are a tonsillar abscess, any esophageal pathology which allows collection of residual food in esophageal like a diverticulum or motility disorder like achalasia.

Lung pathology, like a lung abscess, can also be the cause of halitosis. Gastritis due to H.pylori can also cause halitosis. Also, bezoars in the stomach can be a cause.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.