Hello, Doctor. I have suffered from bad breath for many years. This is getting worse. I have dry mouth and eat very little fruits. I have consulted a Chinese doctor who had given me some advice. I do not understand his advice. I am frustrated. What can I do? (Translation from Chinese)

I am giving my opinion as a Specialist in Family Medicine who practises western medicine. The issue of bad breath (medical term Halithosis)is very common. Bad breath has many causes. They can broadly be divided into 2 categories: Lifestyle issue and Health issue. For lifestyle issue: 1. What particular food type do you eat? Protein products, like meat, will be broken down to give bad breath. 2. Do you diet excessively? This will produce acidosis which will give off breath smell as well. 3. Do you eat late or have night snack? Digested food stagnant in the stomach can emit bad smell the next morning. 4. Do you smoke, drink alcohol, or are you overweight? For health issue: 1. Do you have nasal allergy and sleep open-mouthed? 2. Do you have long term cough problem? Chest condition will also give rise to bad breath. 3. Have you checked your teeth yearly? Dental carries may cause bad breath. 4. Liver, kidney and gastric problems will also emit characteristic breath. You need to attend your family doctor for a review. He/She will give you a diagnosis and point you to the right route of management.