Understanding Sinus Breath

Sinus breath is a term you may not be familiar with. Most people use the general term “bad breath” — but in many cases, this unpleasant odor is more accurately called sinus breath. For these folks, that’s where the problem originates — and that’s what you have to deal with to eliminate the problem.

Sinus breath or sinus bad breath is the foul mouth odor that’s produced by conditions affecting the sinus. A person with a sinus problem would usually have post-nasal dripping at the end of the nasal cavity’s at the back-most portion of the tongue. This area becomes a very favorable breeding ground for bacteria because of the dead sinus cells, pus cells, blood cells and other molecules produced by the body in this area. As your sinus condition continues, the bacteria will continue proliferating, resulting in chronic bad breath — the sinus breath we refer to.

As sinusitis occur, the sinus’ mucus lining becomes irritated as it produces too much mucus. Sinusitis may also cause inflammation of the nasal passages — this makes them narrower, and hinders the normal drainage of mucus. If this happens, the mucus becomes trapped and starts to accumulate much more quickly, providing a serious breeding ground for bacteria.

The good news is sinus breath is curable. In some cases, common bad breath treatments are sufficient to eliminate this condition. Regular brushing, mouthwash, drinking a lot of water, mint candies and avoiding tobacco products are just some of the ways of addressing the issue. However, there are times that this will not work, so you may turn to the following solutions.

• Try some spring cleaning. Mucus that’s trapped in your nasal cavities creates a breeding ground for the bacteria that leads to sinus breath. Consider using a neti pot to rinse your sinus cavities twice a day. You can get a neti pot at most health food stores. Simply use warm water and some salt, and pour through your nostrils. You’ll rid yourself of bacteria-causing mucus — you’ll be amazed at how much clearer your breathing is, and how improved your sinus breath is.
• Assuming you don’t have any allergies to any over-the-counter medications, you might want to try taking antihistamines, decongestants or nasal sprays. These are the common solutions to sinusitis. They help prevent the unwanted nasal swelling and post-nasal drip which can cause bacterial growth and which contribute to sinus breath.
• Address the sinus problem by visiting a doctor. Specialists will know what to do and how to treat your condition. You should continue with the regular good hygiene practices as you wait for your sinus problem to be treated.
• There are instances that medicines such as those stated above could exacerbate bad breath. If that is the case with you, you may want to try using herbs proven to get rid of bad breath. Examples of these are parsley, raw green leaves, avocado and fenugreek.
• If after treating sinusitis you still suffer from bad mouth odor, go see your dentist. There might be another reason or medical condition causing your bad breath.

Getting rid of sinus breath is one of the best favors you can do for yourself. Living with this condition is very uncomfortable — not to mention embarrassing. The best scenario is to address both issues; with sinus breath and sinusitis gone, life will be a lot better.