I have bad breath. I cannot smell it myself but my wife lets me know when it happens. I might go 2-3 weeks with no problem and then it starts again: on one day, off the next, on next two days, ad nauseum.
It is very very rare in the morning. Most likely to occur about 1 hour after eating. The smell then lasts about 3-5 hours. It seems more likely that I will have a problem if I have eaten protein (meat, dairy, eggs, etc).
Potential sources:
MOUTH: My dentist looked at me like I was crazy when I asked him about it. I have healthy gums and no cavities. I brush my teeth everyday, use a tongue scraper, and a chlorine dioxide rinse. I have tried Peridex in the past to no avail.
NOSE/SINUSES: I have had bad allergies (cat, molds, dust) in the past (and suspected post nasal drip as the culprit) but through immunotherapy from my allergist and daily Singulair and Sudafed I am breathing A-OK. The drip is no longer visible on my throat.
STOMACH: My family doctor hears my story and says "GERD": That stomach contents are refluxing into my esophagus and causing the smell. I go on Prilosec, Nexium, then Protonix with no apparent change. I have never had heartburn or other symptoms. I do not feel spit up in my throat.
Test for H. Pylori is negative. Test for liver, kidney function is A-OK. Barium Upper GI shows reflux and proper stomach emptying. No ulcers. No hiatal hernia.
After receiving these results I have continued on Protonix and modified my diet: no soda, coffee, tea, chocolate, mint, peppermint, onions, tomato, or spicy foods (it hasn't been interesting eating). After one week of this new diet the problem has not gone away.
MISCELLANEOUS:
- Overall, I think I belch and have more flatulence than the average individual.
- This problem is making me stressed, depressed, and reclusive.
THOUGHTS?