Persistent bad breath is frequently dismissed as a minor dental concern, yet Dr Pradip Jamnadas, an interventional cardiologist, warns it may point to serious underlying health issues, including cardiovascular disease. His research emphasises the intricate connection between oral hygiene, chronic sinus infections, and heart health. Poor dental care allows harmful bacteria to thrive in the mouth, which can trigger systemic inflammation affecting the heart. Additionally, chronic sinusitis, especially fungal infections, can contribute to low-grade inflammation that increases the risk of coronary artery disease. Dr Jamnadas stresses that the mouth often reflects broader bodily health, making halitosis a potential early warning sign for heart-related complications, highlighting the need for timely medical evaluation and preventive care.
How oral health impacts cardiovascular risk
Your risk of developing heart disease is influenced by much more than diet and exercise. According to Dr Jamnadas, the microbiome in your mouth and nose plays a crucial role in cardiovascular health. Poor oral hygiene can allow harmful bacteria to flourish, contributing to systemic inflammation and increasing the risk of heart conditions.Dr Jamnadas emphasises that the mouth often provides early warning signs of broader health issues. Bad breath, for instance, can indicate not only dental problems but also underlying heart risks, including valve disease and coronary artery disease.
Understanding the connection between bad breath and heart disease
Bad breath, or halitosis, is commonly associated with oral hygiene issues, but research suggests it may sometimes be linked to more serious health conditions. Dr Jamnadas explained that the bacteria responsible for bad breath can enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation that impacts the heart.“There is a microbiome that extends from your nose and mouth down through your digestive system. Each microbiome is specific and can indicate whether you are at risk of cardiovascular disease,” he stated during a podcast interview on The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett. Chronic exposure to harmful oral bacteria can lead to premature calcification of the heart valves and increase the risk of aortic stenosis and coronary calcification, highlighting the importance of oral hygiene for long-term heart health.
Chronic sinusitis and lifestyle factors: Hidden contributors to heart disease
Chronic sinusitis is an infection or inflammation of the maxillary and frontal sinuses, often causing persistent nasal congestion, headaches, and coughs. Dr Jamnadas explains that this condition can create low-grade systemic inflammation, which has been associated with coronary artery disease.“Especially when fungal infections are involved, the resulting inflammation may contribute to heart disease,” he noted. This connection underscores that cardiovascular risk factors extend beyond traditional lifestyle choices and include conditions like sinus infections. Traditionally, coronary artery disease has been attributed to diet, lack of exercise, and genetics. However, Dr Jamnadas encourages a broader view, explaining that oral and nasal health, mental wellbeing, and lifestyle habits collectively influence heart health. “Everything in your lifestyle—mental, physical, dietary—affects your coronary arteries. We are now redefining the causes of heart disease to include factors that were previously overlooked,” he explained.
Key steps to protect heart and oral health
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush twice daily, floss regularly, and use mouthwash to reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth that may contribute to heart disease.
- Regular dental check-ups: Routine visits to the dentist help detect oral problems early, preventing infections that can affect cardiovascular health.
- Address chronic sinus issues promptly: Treating conditions like chronic sinusitis or fungal infections reduces systemic inflammation, lowering the risk of coronary artery disease.
- Watch for subtle health signals: Persistent bad breath, nasal congestion, or recurring sinus infections can be early indicators of heart-related issues.
- Integrate overall lifestyle care: Balanced diet, regular exercise, mental wellbeing, and stress management collectively support both oral and cardiovascular health.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any concerns about your oral or heart health.Also Read | Ultra-processed foods may trigger Crohn’s Disease and damage your gut health: Know what is it and practical steps to reduce risks