Bad Breath
Patients experiencing frequent acid reflux or GERD also suffer from bad breath. When the lower esophageal sphincter works appropriately, it opens when swallowing occurs to let food enter the stomach and closes tightly. However, a problematic lower esophageal sphincter remains open despite not being needed, allowing acids to flow back into the throat.
Almost 85% of patients with GERD experience bad breath. The regurgitation of stomach contents can cause heartburn and a bitter or sour taste in the mouth resulting in bad breath. This condition can affect the patient’s confidence and self-esteem. This also adds to the stress that they feel, which also triggers acid reflux and GERD.
Bad breaths can be treated through lifestyle changes. One example is waiting two to three hours to lie down after eating. Another is putting a six-inch board or wedge pillow under the head of the bed to raise the torso and reduce pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, eating smaller meals throughout the day rather than three large meals, reaching and maintaining healthy weight for reducing stress on the LES, and chewing gum for fresher breath and decrease reflux.
