Halitosis With Nasal Discharge

The nose and nasal passages are the second most common source of halitosis, after the mouth. It’s a common occurrence for people experiencing nasal congestion to have halitosis, or bad breath. Halitosis may occur due to mucous build-up and congestion. Most bad breath comes either from inside the mouth itself or from the nasal cavity. Halitosis can be associated with both acute and chronic sinusitis.

Many times in these cases, bad breath isn’t the only symptom. Sinusitis is generally coupled along with a daytime and nighttime cough, and perhaps a fever, or a thick yellow-green nasal discharge. The halitosis is probably coming from the bacterial infection itself, and also from the bacteria that is feeding on the salvia through mouth-breathing. Seasonal allergies can also cause nasal discharge resulting in halitosis. Allergies can cause the mucus in the back of the throat to pool (postnasal drip), which can cause halitosis. In this case, other symptoms such as a dry cough which gets worse at night may occur.

Halitosis associated with nasal discharge often comes mainly out of the nose. Medical risks for halitosis can include chronic sinusitis, post nasal drip or tonsillitis. The nasal discharge associated with a cold or flu can also create bad breath. A physician should be consulted if halitosis becomes chronic.

The nasal discharge or mucus resulting from colds, allergies or medications can collect on the back of the tongue. This layer of mucus discharge easily provides a protective blanket under which the volatile bacteria can hide causing halitosis.

Over-the-counter nasal sprays can be used to help thin out nasal discharge, making it less useful to the odor-causing bacteria. Medications can dry up the sinuses and prevent mucus build-up. While taking these medications, be careful to avoid a dry mouth, which can also cause halitosis. Dry mouth can be a perfect environment for creating halitosis. Another way to make mucus less viscous is to drink plenty of water. The water makes the mucus less likely to collect on the back of the tongue. The decrease in the collection of the nasal discharge also decreases the chances of halitosis.