Bad breath can be one of the symptoms of acid reflux. Also referred to as indigestion, this digestive condition is a result of stomach contents flowing back into your esophagus. For most people, this causes a burning sensation often associated with heartburn. Others can develop a bitter odor to their breath. If acid reflux has led to bad breath, the only way to truly reduce or eliminate the foul odor is by treating the digestive condition.
Acid Reflux
The Mayo Clinic characterizes acid reflux as the regurgitation of stomach contents. It occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter doesn't close as normal, allowing food particles, stomach acids and other liquids to flow back into your esophagus. It's often accompanied by a burning sensation in the chest or throat.
Origins
The bad breath is caused by the actual contents of the regurgitation. As you experience reflux, the stomach acids can emit a foul odor into your esophagus, which then escapes through your mouth and leads to bad breath. The aroma is usually sour or bitter, but it may also contain hints of a recent meal or snack.
OTC Treatment
The only way you can eliminate the bad breath from acid reflux is to treat the cause of the odor, so you must focus on managing the digestive condition. Antacids and H-2-receptor blockers are two of the more popular over-the-counter treatments, according to the Mayo Clinic. These include sodium bicarbonate, magnesium hydroxide, calcium carbonate, cimetidine, ranitidine and nizatidine. Proton pump inhibitors can also be of benefit. All of these medications either neutralize or reduce stomach acids, which lessens the chances of regurgitation.
If these fail to reduce the acid reflux, a prescription medication may be necessary. These include prescription strength versions of over-the-counter medications, such as H-2-receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors, as well as prokinetic agents. You won't relieve bad breath until you can control the reflux.
Prevention/Solution
If your acid reflux and subsequent bad breath is linked to certain foods, you can usually reduce the occurrence by avoiding such triggers. Caffeine, alcohol, onions, garlic and fried foods are some of the biggest culprits, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease. Even mint and chocolate can initiate reflux, thereby causing foul breath. Keep track of which foods cause the most problems for you and avoid them.
Fluid Consumption
Another method that may help to reduce acid reflux and its associated bad breath is increasing your fluid consumption. Water is by far the best option. Drink it during meals and snacks as well as throughout the day.
