Halitosis Symptoms – How to Spot the Common Symptoms of Halitosis
Halitosis symptoms can manifest in a variety of ways. In this article we are going to take a look at what can cause bad breath and the symptoms that we should be on the lookout so that we can make the distinction between mild bad breath, perhaps caused by something we have eaten, and the more serious condition of chronic bad breath caused bacteria living on the tongue that we call halitosis.
To check the freshness of our own breath simply breathing out and trying to smell it is not very effective. Instead it is better to lick the back of your own hand, wait a few seconds, then smell it. If there is a smell here then I am sorry to say that the chances are you are indeed suffering from bad breath or some degree of halitosis. At this point I know all too well just how upsetting it can be when we realise we do indeed have this problem, and I do not want to sound in any way patronising but please try and believe me when I say its really not the end of the world (even though I know all too well that it may feel like that at the moment). Many of us have had this problem and there are solutions, so while you may be feeling down right now the good news is that we have now identified the problem and so we can get to work solving it.
For now though, lets examine a few more of the tell tale halitosis symptoms we need to be on the look out for. Another give away may be that despite the fact you brush and floss everyday your bad breath persists. This would be an indication that for some reason the bacteria are still managing to grow and you have halitosis.
You can of course ask an understanding friend or relative if they have ever noticed your breath. Even if they have this does not necessarily mean that you have halitosis and so we need to be able to spot the other halitosis symptoms before jumping to any conclusions.
White or Yellow Film on the Tongue
A white or yellow film on the tongue, particularly at the back is often a symptom of halitosis. The film is caused by an accumulation of both the anaerobic bacteria that cause halitosis and mucous. Although the bacteria that cause halitosis are found throughout the mouth one area that is ideal for breeding is the small spaces between the taste buds at the back of the tongue. If this area has the yellow or white film it is important to clean it each day with a tongue scraper then use and antibacterial mouthwash.
Dry Mouth
Having a dry mouth is not only a halitosis symptom but also one of the common causes of bad breath. A dry mouth aids the development of bad breath causing bacteria for a number of reasons. Firstly the concentration of bacteria in the saliva increases making them more likely to evaporate and be smelt on the breath. The lack of saliva also caused the mouth to become more acidic, an environment ideal for the reproduction of bacteria. Finally less saliva means that there is less of a flushing effect in the mouth and much cellular debris is available for the bacteria to feed on.
It is therefore vitally important to stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day and also avoiding diuretics like coffee that cause dehydration.
Strange Tastes
Another symptom of halitosis can be a strange taste in the mouth. The taste may be bitter, sour or metallic. The most common cause of these tastes is simply a dry mouth but there can be other reasons such as drainage from the sinus, various medications, dental infections and blood.
If you notice that you have any of the above the your best course of action is to speak to a health care professional like a dentist who will be able to recommend the best course of action for the halitosis symptoms you exhibit.
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