Latest news with #Cureus
Los Angeles Times
4 days ago
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Halitosis (Bad Breath) Explained: Causes, Treatments, and What Works
Halitosis—bad breath—isn't just a minor inconvenience. Halitosis is the medical term for bad breath. For many, it's a real social and emotional issue, leading to embarrassment, anxiety or avoidance of personal interactions. Chronic bad breath can impact quality of life. While occasional bad breath is normal, persistent halitosis may indicate deeper oral or systemic health issues and could be a sign of an underlying medical condition. But knowing the causes and staying up to date on science-backed treatments can make a big difference. Bad breath can come from many sources but most are tied to the mouth. The most common culprits are bacteria on the tongue, gum disease, dry mouth and food particles decomposing. The main causes of bad breath or oral halitosis are coated tongue, tooth decay, periodontal disease and oral infections all of which are major oral health issues that contribute to bad odor and persistent mouth odor. According to a 2023 narrative review in Cureus tongue coating and periodontal issues are at the top of the list [3]. Similarly a study in Monographs in Oral Science says oral biofilms especially on the surface of the tongue are among the leading causes [9]. These biofilms are sticky layers of bacteria that release foul smelling gases like volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) during digestion of proteins in the mouth. A coated tongue is made up of dead cells and bacteria which can produce bad odor. Bacterial growth in these biofilms produces bad odor and persistent mouth like smoking, poor hydration or medications that reduce saliva flow can make the condition worse by drying out the mouth and allowing odor causing bacteria to thrive. When oral hygiene is not maintained food particles remain in the mouth and bacteria grows. Certain foods like garlic and onions can also cause bad breath as their compounds are absorbed into the bloodstream and affect breath until eliminated from the body. Systemic causes like postnasal drip, tonsil stones and dental caries are other oral health issues that can contribute to halitosis. When bacteria breaks down proteins in the mouth they interact with amino acids in food to produce volatile sulfur compounds further contributing to bad odor. Tooth decay and periodontal disease are major contributors to oral halitosis and chronic bad breath [4]. Treating halitosis starts with identifying its cause. In most cases improved oral hygiene goes a long way. Practicing good oral hygiene and regular brushing is key to preventing halitosis as these habits remove food particles and bacteria that cause bad breath. Mechanical cleaning is the gold standard. A 2005 review in the South African Dental Association Journal recommends routine brushing and flossing and daily tongue scraping to physically remove odor causing bacteria [1]. Tongue scraping is an essential part of good oral hygiene as it removes bacteria and debris from the surface of the tongue. After brushing and flossing using mouthwash can help achieve a comprehensive mouth clean by reaching areas the brush may miss and make sure the whole mouth is fresh and germ free. Professional treatment especially for those with gum disease is also important. Dentists will examine the whole mouth to identify all possible causes of halitosis. Deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing where tartar is removed from below the gumline can reduce bacterial load as mentioned in a 2013 review in the Journal of Natural Science, Biology, and Medicine [2]. Antimicrobial and probiotic therapies are gaining ground. Recent studies in Clinical Oral Investigations show promise for antimicrobial rinses and probiotics that can rebalance the mouth's microbial environment [6]. These can reduce VSC producing bacteria and promote healthier halitosis persists after these interventions it's time to look beyond the mouth. Consult a primary care physician or primary healthcare provider to investigate underlying causes if dental interventions are not effective [7]. As Brazilian Oral Research says, gastrointestinal issues, sinus infections and even certain metabolic disorders can also be the cause. Halitosis is best treated by addressing the underlying cause whether it's oral or systemic. For those with dry mouth it's important to ensure there is enough saliva to maintain oral health. If natural saliva production is insufficient, artificial saliva can be used to keep the mouth moist and reduce the risk of halitosis. What actually works? The 2019 Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews is one of the most comprehensive reviews to date [5]. These interventions are primarily aimed at reducing halitosis or bad breath. Here's what the evidence says: Drinking coffee can worsen breath odor and may reduce the effectiveness of some treatments. However the review notes many of these studies have small sample sizes and varied designs. Bacterial proliferation often due to underlying conditions like dry mouth or infections can also reduce the effectiveness of some interventions. So while the results are encouraging the overall certainty is still low to very low. One of the most exciting developments in recent years is the focus on the oral microbiome—the unique balance of bacteria in each person's mouth. A 2023 review in Clinical Oral Investigations highlights the connection between microbial imbalance and halitosis especially the role of anaerobic bacteria that thrive in low-oxygen environments like the back of the tongue [6]. These bacteria break down proteins into VSCs which produce the characteristic rotten egg or sulfur this bacterial ecosystem through diet, oral hygiene and targeted treatments may be the key to long term halitosis control. Eating healthy foods like fruits and vegetables can support oral health by stimulating saliva production and maintaining a balanced oral microbiome. Eating healthy foods not only keeps the mouth moist but also reduces the risk of bad breath. Certain health conditions like sinus infections, diabetes, liver and kidney disease can also disrupt the oral microbiome and cause halitosis. Despite the prevalence of bad breath it's still widely misunderstood and under-discussed. That's where dental professionals come in—not just to treat but to educate. According to a 2014 literature review in Oral Health & Preventive Dentistry many patients are unaware of tongue cleaning or the importance of mouth rinsing in managing odor [7]. Similarly a 2020 article in the Australian Dental Journal calls for standardized screening and diagnostic tools to help dental teams identify and address halitosis early [8]. Dentists are in a prime position to normalize these conversations and guide patients towards effective solutions. Not all research related to halitosis is clinically useful. For example a 2010 article on acidosis, hypoxia and bone health was reviewed but found irrelevant to the management of halitosis [10]. This highlights the importance of relying on targeted evidence-based sources when developing treatment plans. Halitosis is more than just a nuisance—it's a multifactorial condition that deserves thoughtful evaluation and care. With proper hygiene, targeted therapies and guidance from dental professionals most cases can be managed or eliminated. While the science is still evolving the current evidence offers a clear roadmap for helping patients breathe a little easier—both literally and socially. [1] Feller, L., & Blignaut, E. (2005). Halitosis: a review. SADJ : journal of the South African Dental Association = tydskrif van die Suid-Afrikaanse Tandheelkundige Vereniging, 60(1), 17–19. [2] Aylıkcı, B. U., & Colak, H. (2013). Halitosis: From diagnosis to management. Journal of natural science, biology, and medicine, 4(1), 14–23. [3] Khounganian, R. M., Alasmari, O. N., Aldosari, M. M., & Alghanemi, N. M. (2023). Causes and Management of Halitosis: A Narrative Review. Cureus, 15(8), e43742. [4] Rösing, C. K., & Loesche, W. (2011). Halitosis: an overview of epidemiology, etiology and clinical management. Brazilian oral research, 25(5), 466–471. [5] Kumbargere Nagraj, S., Eachempati, P., Uma, E., Singh, V. P., Ismail, N. M., & Varghese, E. (2019). Interventions for managing halitosis. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 12(12), CD012213. [6] Li, Z., Li, J., Fu, R., Liu, J., Wen, X., & Zhang, L. (2023). Halitosis: etiology, prevention, and the role of microbiota. Clinical oral investigations, 27(11), 6383–6393. [7] Akaji, E. A., Folaranmi, N., & Ashiwaju, O. (2014). Halitosis: a review of the literature on its prevalence, impact and control. Oral health & preventive dentistry, 12(4), 297–304. [8] Wu, J., Cannon, R. D., Ji, P., Farella, M., & Mei, L. (2020). Halitosis: prevalence, risk factors, sources, measurement and treatment - a review of the literature. Australian dental journal, 65(1), 4–11. [9] Ortiz, V., & Filippi, A. (2021). Halitosis. Monographs in oral science, 29, 195–200. [10] Arnett T. R. (2010). Acidosis, hypoxia and bone. Archives of biochemistry and biophysics, 503(1), 103–109.
The Sun
09-07-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Man, 28, who felt a ‘crack' during sex left with potentially lethal penis tear – but didn't present with classic signs
A MAN who heard a 'crack' during sex was left with a potentially deadly tear inside his penis, despite not showing any classic signs. The unnamed 28-year-old turned up at an A&E in Poland bleeding heavily from his urethra, the tube men pee from, after a romp with a partner. 2 Medics expected to see bruising, swelling, or a bent shaft - known as the " eggplant deformity" - a classic sign of a penile fracture. The nightmarish injury can happen during acrobatic sexual positions or even when playing sports Instead of seeing any obvious damage, the young lad's penis looked 'externally normal', the paper published in Cureus described. The only sign that something was seriously wrong was the blood flowing from the tip. Worried something wasn't right, the medics at Janusz Korczak Provincial Specialist Hospital, in Słupsk, where the man was treated, decided to operate. Once inside, they discovered a hidden tear on the underside of his penis, a rare and dangerous injury that had ripped through both erectile chambers and the urethra. The skin was peeled back and the shaft flushed with saline to pinpoint the damage, before surgeons stitched him back together. The man was discharged three days later with a catheter in place, and made a full recovery. The doctors said most penile fracture usually causes a snapping sound, pain, and swelling. That's because the penis is made of erectile tissues wrapped in a tough layer called the tunica albuginea. Dr Philippa Kaye Answers Most Embarrassing Men's Health Questions When erect, this layer stretches tight, and if the tissue tears during some badly aimed sex, it makes a cracking noise and causes injury. But 'up to 20 per cent' of cases also involve urethral injury, which should be suspected if there's bleeding from the urethra or trouble peeing, the author said. "Although rare, combined rupture of the urethra and corpora cavernosa following sexual intercourse can occur and requires prompt diagnosis and surgical repair," they explained. If left untreated, these injuries can cause long-term problems such as erectile dysfunction and scarring. In rare cases, bacteria can enter through the tear and cause a serious infection called urosepsis. This starts in the urinary tract but can quickly develop into life-threatening sepsis, when the body overreacts to infection. It triggers widespread inflammation, tissue damage, organ failure, and even death.
Time of India
09-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Twice the limit: Study rings alarm bells over trend of excessive screen time in Indian kids; alerts of serious developmental risks
Children under the age of five in India are spending much more time in front of screens than experts advise—an average of 2.2 hours daily, which is double the recommended limit, reported TOI citing a new study published in the journal Cureus. For children under two, the average is still concerning—1.2 hours a day, despite guidelines suggesting screen exposure at that age should be completely avoided. The findings are based on a meta-analysis of 10 studies covering 2,857 children, conducted by researchers Ashish Khobragade and M Swathi Shenoy from AIIMS Raipur. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Join new Free to Play WWII MMO War Thunder War Thunder Play Now Undo Experts warn that too much screen exposure at a young age can lead to slower language development, poor cognitive function, and weaker social skills. Other risks include obesity, poor sleep patterns, and difficulty concentrating. Dr D K Gupta, a pediatrician and chairman of Felix Hospitals, told TOI that 60–70% of children under 5 are now regularly exceeding screen-time limits. Live Events 'This is leading to serious physical and behavioural problems,' he said. 'Parents often use screens to distract kids while feeding them or calming them down—but this needs to change.' He stressed that parents must lead by example. 'If parents reduce their own screen time, children will follow,' he added. Simple steps to cut back screen use To reduce screen dependency, the study recommends a few practical steps: Create tech-free zones at home, such as bedrooms and dining areas Set clear and consistent screen-time limits Encourage offline activities like outdoor play and reading Actively engage in face-to-face interactions with children In a rare move, the Chief Medical Officer of Ghaziabad recently issued an advisory to parents, warning them of the growing number of physical, mental, and behavioural health problems seen in children addicted to mobile screens. The advisory urged parents to engage children in outdoor games, hobbies, and social interactions to help break screen addiction. One doctor even reported seeing children as young as 10 to 12 years old showing signs of aggression and restlessness when their internet use was restricted by parents. "They become irritated, even aggressive. It's alarming," the doctor told the news outlet.
Scottish Sun
02-07-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Man, 24, breaks out in horror rash and nearly bleeds to death after taking petrol station ‘Viagra'
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A YOUNG man faced the terrifying risk of internal bleeding after taking a 'Viagra' pill bought from a petrol station. The 24-year-old ended up in a US hospital after developing unusual symptoms, including a purple rash, persistent gum bleeding and nosebleeds. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 2 Blood tests revealed dangerously low platelet levels, leading to a diagnosis of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). ITP is a rare but serious condition where the immune system attacks the body's own blood cells, specifically the platelets. These are tiny cells that help the blood clot, without enough of them, even minor bumps or cuts can lead to dangerous internal bleeding. Symptoms can include easy bruising, petechiae (small red or purple spots on the skin), nosebleeds, and bleeding gums. Last year, A Place in the Sun presenter Laura Hamilton revealed she's suffered the same condition. The 43-year-old shared images with fans showing the outbreak of bruises on her legs, caused by her ITP. A healthy person typically has 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microlitre of blood. The man mentioned in the new case report had just 1,000, putting him at extreme risk of random, potentially fatal bleeding inside the brain or gut. He later admitted he had been taking Rhino 69 Platinum 1000 for two weeks, which he had bought from a petrol station while on holiday in Mexico. Doctors from Kern Medical Center, in Bakersfield, believe the unregulated sex pill triggered the condition, marking the first known case of a supplement being linked to ITP. The drug contains sildenafil, the same active ingredient as prescription Viagra used to treat erectile dysfunction. "Our case suggests that sildenafil-containing supplements such as 'Rhino 69 Platinum 1000' may represent a previously unrecognised cause of ITP," the medics wrote in Cureus. Unlike Viagra, Rhino 69 is unlicensed, it's sold online and in some shops without proper safety checks. This is because supplements in many countries are not subject to the same rigorous safety or quality checks that prescription medicines are. This means contaminated, counterfeit, or mislabeled products can make it to store shelves and websites. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has repeatedly warned that it may be contaminated with hidden ingredients or cause serious side effects. TP is usually caused by viral infections, autoimmune diseases, or certain prescription medicines, including antibiotics, anti-seizure drugs, and chemotherapy. The man was treated with high-dose steroids and a blood product called IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin), which calms the immune system. His platelet count returned to normal within a week.
Scottish Sun
30-06-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Boy, 18, left with horrific bowel disease for life after hay fever tablets wreaked havoc in his gut
Plus, the signs of the boy's condition to look out for PILL PERIL Boy, 18, left with horrific bowel disease for life after hay fever tablets wreaked havoc in his gut CHRONIC use of popular medications may lead to inflammatory bowel disease, experts have warned. Their warning comes after an 18-year-old boy' s daily use led to him developing colitis. 2 The boy's case highlights the adverse effects associated with chronic NSAID use Credit: Getty The teenage boy had been dealing with debilitating daily headaches and decided to self-treat with daily over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs are a class of medications used to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever. They're commonly used for conditions like headaches, menstrual cramps, sprains, strains, and arthritis, with common examples including ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin. In a report published in Cureus, medical experts detailed how the boy had also been taking diphenhydramine for seasonal allergies - which is a combination of an antihistamine and NSAID. More than two years after taking the pills daily, he began experiencing hematochezia - bleeding from the rectum - and fatigue. He had no significant past medical history, but revealed to doctors he'd been taking 600mg of over-the-counter NSAIDs two times a day. A colonoscopy revealed significant mucosal inflammation in his colon, suggestive of colitis due to chronic NSAID use, which led to him being officially diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Colitis is one of the main types of IBD. Doctors discharged the boy after his vital signs (heart rate and blood pressure) showed to be stable. He was given oral oral prednisone and mesalamine for IBD, was advised to discontinue NSAID use, and was instructed to return in six weeks for a repeat colonoscopy. I was going to the toilet 40 times a day - FA Cup star opens up on his bowel disease torment But he ultimately failed to follow up. The authors of the report wrote: "This case highlights the adverse effects associated with chronic NSAID use." They added: "Although the patient was diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, the absence of a strong family history and the presence of chronic NSAID use raise the possibility of drug-induced colitis. 2 A colonoscopy revealed significant mucosal inflammation in his colon, suggestive of colitis due to chronic NSAID use Credit: cureus "This underscores the importance of obtaining a detailed medication history and ensuring close outpatient follow-up." What is colitis? Colitis, or ulcerative colitis as it's also known, is where the colon and rectum become inflamed. The exact cause is unknown, although it's thought to be the result of a problem with the immune system. Inherited genes may also be a factor of the development of the condition - you may be more likely to have it if you have a close relative with the condition. And where and how you live could affect your chances. The NHS advises: "The condition is more common in urban areas of northern parts of western Europe and America. "Various environmental factors that may be linked to uclerative colitis have been studied, including air pollution, medicine and certain diets. "Although no factors have so far been identified, countries with improved sanitation seem to have a higher population of people with the condition. "This suggests that reduced exposure to bacteria may be an important factor." NSAIDs, some heart and migraine medications, hormone medicines, and antibiotics have previously been linked to colitis.
