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Is bad breath bad news?

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

It stinks, but yes, sometimes bad breath (Latin name, Halitosis) is a sign of bad health. The following reasons for bad breath begin with the most common and end with potentially serious causes.  

Poor oral hygiene 

Not brushing and/or flossing correctly allows the buildup of bacteria in the mouth, resulting in bad breath. 

Food and drink 

Strong-smelling foods like garlic, onions, and certain spices can leave an odor in the mouth, which can stick around until the food is digested and eliminated from the body. 

Dry mouth 

Saliva helps cleanse the mouth and remove odor-causing bacteria. When the mouth is dry due to dehydration, certain medications or breathing just through your mouth, bad breath can occur. 

Tobacco use 

Smoking and chewing tobacco leave chemicals in the mouth that contribute to bad breath and other oral health problems.  

Dental problems 

Cavities, dental abscesses and periodontal (gum) disease are caused by bacterial infections in the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Decaying teeth emit foul odors. Gum disease produces even more unpleasant odors and can cause pain. Sometimes, patients aren’t aware that cavities can cause bad breath. Untreated cavities can become dental abscesses, which can lead to gum disease, so don’t hesitate to ask a doctor (medical or dental) to assess the overall health of your mouth.  

Bronchitis, sinusitis and other respiratory reasons 

Post-nasal drip, allergies and various respiratory Infections all cause bad breath as a result of the release of bacteria. Halitosis is a major symptom of pneumonia.  

Systemic illnesses 

Systemic illnesses affect one or more of the body’s systems. Some, like kidney disease and diabetes, affect the entire body. For instance, if your kidney is not functioning properly, the waste products your body would normally expel build up in your system and cause breath to smell. It is often called ammonia breath.  

 

Other illnesses besides kidney disease and diabetes that share bad breath as a symptom include certain cancers, gastrointestinal illnesses and autoimmune diseases. 

 

A 2022 research study on bad breath discusses the fact that 85% of the cases are due to inadequate oral hygiene; gum disease and tongue coating; 10% due to ear, nose and throat-related (bronchitis, sinusitis, etc.) illnesses and 5% from gastrointestinal/endocrine disorders.  

 

These researchers call for a multidisciplinary approach to combat this common complaint, so don’t be shy about putting a team in place.  

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Is bad breath bad news?

The following reasons for bad breath begin with the most common and end with potentially serious causes.  

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Are you applying your perfume safely and correctly?

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Whether you’re hanging around your house or heading out to a special event, spritzing on your favorite body spray or perfume can be a key step in feeling your best. 

 

Take the quiz below to find out if you’re a perfume pro or if you need a little help making sure your scent lasts all day. 

 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Quiz: Are you applying your perfume safely and correctly?

Take our quiz to find out if you’re a perfume pro or if you need a little help making sure your scent lasts all day. 

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Making home safe for those in your care

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

As a caregiver for someone at home, you do everything you can to provide the best care possible. Making sure the home is safe is another consideration.  

 

General tips for reducing the chance of injuries in the home

  • Pad sharp corners on furniture and counter tops. 

  • Keep objects that are used often within easy reach. 

  • Install handrails around the toilet and in the shower. Use a tub mat to prevent slipping. 

  • Use a shower chair or bath bench when the person bathes. 

  • Provide good lighting inside and outside the home. Put night-lights in bedrooms, hallways and bathrooms. Have light at the top and bottom of stairways. 

  • Have a first aid kit. 

  • Be aware of safe temperatures in the home. When helping someone bathe, use the back of your hand to test the water to make sure it's not too hot. Lower the temperature setting in the hot water heater to 120°F or lower to avoid burns. And make sure other liquids (such as coffee, tea or soup) are not too hot. 

 

Protecting the home from fire and carbon monoxide 

  • Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the home. 

  • Change the batteries in each twice a year. 

  • Have a plan for getting out of the home if there is a fire. 

  • Practice by having a fire drill. 

  • Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen. 

 

Preventing falls 

  • Keep rooms uncluttered with clear walkways around furniture.  

  • Keep electrical cords off the floor and remove throw rugs to prevent tripping. 

  • If there are steps in the home, make sure they all have handrails, and always use the handrails. Don't leave items on the steps, and be sure to fix any that are loose, broken or uneven. 

 

Making the home safer for someone with dementia 

  • Don't move furniture around. The person may get confused. 

  • Use locks on doors and cupboards. 

  • Lock up knives, scissors, medicines, cleaning supplies and other dangerous items. 

  • Use hidden switches or controls for appliances. For example, you can install these for the stove, thermostat and water heater. 

  • Think about whether it's still safe for the person to cook. It may be okay with some help, depending on your loved one’s condition. But for people who have memory or thinking problems, it’s best to avoid any activities that might not be safe. 

  • Install motion-sensor lights on all doors and windows. Do this if the person tends to wander or tries to leave the home. 

  • Have emergency numbers in a central area near a phone. Include 911 and numbers for the doctor and family members. 

  • Get medical alert jewelry for the person. That way you can be contacted if the person wanders away. If you can, provide a safe place for wandering, such as an enclosed yard or garden. 

 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Making home safe for those in your care

As a caregiver for someone at home, you do everything you can to provide the best care possible. Making sure the home is safe is another consideration.  

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Don’t break your heart: Do you know the warning signs of a heart attack?

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Having a heart attack is scary and can be deadly. If you do not act quickly, you can die. But there are things you can do to reduce your chances of having a heart attack. 

However, sometimes bad genetics or not following the guidelines can cause a heart attack. Knowing what to do, can mean the difference between life and death. No exaggeration.  

Pay attention. This is a test you want to ace.  

 

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Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Having a heart attack is scary and can be deadly. If you do not act quickly, you can die. But there are things you can do to reduce your chances of having a heart attack.

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Do superfoods lead to super health?

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Mostly everyone has heard the phrase superfood. Do we really know what superfoods are and if they live up to the hype? Take our short quiz to find out. 

 

If you are considering changing your diet drastically, you should talk to your doctor first. Superfoods are a great source of nutrients. However, everyone’s needs are different.  

 

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Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Do superfoods lead to super health?

Mostly everyone has heard the phrase superfood. Do we really know what superfoods are and if they live up to the hype? Take our short quiz to find out. 

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4 questions to ask yourself before you take health advice from someone on social media

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Social media is a great way to stay connected to loved ones, learn new things and engage in our interests. It can also be a huge source of misinformation, especially for health and wellness topics.  

A study featured in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that health misinformation on social media is generally linked to the following six domains: (1) vaccines, (2) diets and eating disorders, (3) drugs and new tobacco products, (4) pandemics and communicable diseases, (5) noncommunicable diseases and (6) medical treatments and health interventions. 

There isn’t anything wrong with watching or reading about others’ health experiences or recommendations. In fact, this can give us great ideas and questions to bring to our doctor and help us feel less alone in our health and wellness journeys. 

However, health advice on social media should only serve as a starting point for further discussion or exploration – not as an official diagnosis, instant answer to your question or solution to your problem.  

Next time you watch a video or read a post from someone sharing health or wellness information, ask yourself these four questions: 

1. Are they a licensed or credentialed professional? 

Especially when it comes to medical advice, check to see if they are a licensed professional. They will likely have their credentials listed on their profile. Once you identify which licenses and credentials they hold, you can verify them online.  

2. Are they promising a quick fix? 

We’ve all heard the expression, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” This also applies to anything you see on social media. If someone promises you incredible results by doing “just one thing,” just one workout, just one supplement, just one change to your diet, it’s worth researching a little more closely. 

3. Are they trying to sell you something? 

Many people use social media to build their businesses. If they are trying to sell their health-related services, products, or plans, they will naturally be more biased in their posts and videos. Make sure to do your research on their claims, especially before you make a purchase. 

4. Is their advice one-size-fits-all? 

Each of us has a unique health history. That means each of us has different needs and responses. Without your entire health history, even a professional cannot accurately diagnose you. If someone is just sharing their personal success story, keep in mind that just because something works for them doesn’t mean it will work for you. 

Even after asking yourself these questions, checking with your primary care provider is the best way to ensure the advice you are receiving is legitimate and safe. 

 

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Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

4 questions to ask yourself before you take health advice from someone on social media

Social media is a great way to stay connected to loved ones, learn new things and engage in our interests. It can also be a huge source of misinformation, especially for health and wellness topics.  

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Does your toothbrush have fecal matter on it? Gulp.

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Brush your teeth twice a day. Brush after sugary snacks. Replace your toothbrush occasionally.  

 

Toothbrush care seems simple, right? Actually, there is more to it, and some of the things you have been doing could lead to disgusting results we don’t want to think about.  

 

Take our quiz to learn more. 

 

For more tips on taking care of your toothbrush and mouth, talk to your dentist, who you should see at least twice a year.  

References:

Penn Medicine

CDC (Centers for Diseases Control)

American Dental Association

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Does your toothbrush have fecal matter on it? Gulp.

Toothbrush care seems simple, right? Actually, there is more to it, and some of the things you have been doing could lead to disgusting results we don’t want to think about. Take our quiz to learn more. 

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Why do I need a colonoscopy?

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

It’s not something we like to talk about – unless you’re a kid who likes bathroom humor – but it’s an important topic. Paying attention to our bowel movement health and getting recommended colonoscopies can help find cancer earlier.   

While colon cancer screenings are effective tools for helping detect and prevent cancer deaths, diet and weight control can help prevent it in the first place. A diet rich in vegetables and fruits and maintaining a normal weight appears to help protect against colon cancer, as well. 

Here are recommendations from the American Cancer Society: 

Weight: While being overweight or obese increases the risk of colorectal cancer in both men and women, the link seems to be stronger in men.  

Physical activity: Being more active lowers your risk of colorectal cancer and polyps.  

Diet: Overall, diets that are high in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and low in red and processed meats, probably lower colorectal cancer risk, although it’s not exactly clear which factors are important.  

Alcohol: Several studies have found a higher risk of colorectal cancer with increased alcohol intake, especially among men. It is best not to drink alcohol. For people who do drink, they should have no more than one drink per day for women or two drinks per day for men. 

Not smoking: Long-term smoking is linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer, as well as many other cancers and health problems.  

The bottom line is do everything you can to reduce your risk.  “Colon cancer is a silent killer,” said Stephen Ulrich, M.D., board-certified family practice, Perry County Family Practice, New Lexington, Ohio. “By the time patients notice blood in the stool, weight loss and unexplained abdominal pain, the cancer may have already spread to other organs and invaded the wall of the bowel. The result is a colostomy (a bag attached outside the body for bowel function.)”  

However, this can be avoided with adequate screening for colon cancer. The gold standard for colon cancer screening is a colonoscopy, which is recommended at age 45 if there are no other risk factors. If there is a family history of colon cancer or its precursor (colon polyps) in your family, your primary care provider may recommend earlier screenings. 

So, while it’s not typically a topic discussed at the dinner table, it’s a subject that needs shared to help save lives.  

For details on how a colonoscopy is performed, click here. 

 

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Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Why do I need a colonoscopy?

It’s not something we like to talk about – unless you’re a kid who likes bathroom humor – but it’s an important topic. Paying attention to our bowel movement health and getting recommended colonoscopies can help find cancer earlier.   

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Have the vision to keep your eyesight

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

As we age, it is natural for our health and senses to decline. So, if you want to keep your vision strong to see your grandchildren, retirement sunsets and the things on your bucket list, follow the guidelines below to keep your eyes healthy and seeing all they can. 

 

Wear sunglasses 

The benefits of sunglasses go far beyond fashion. Look for sunglasses that block 99 to 100 of UV-A and UV-B radiation.  

 

Watch your blood sugar 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 90% of blindness caused by diabetes is preventable. The general rule of thumb is to keep your A1C below 7%. However, based on other health factors, you may have a different goal. Talk to your doctor for recommendations on preventing and living with diabetes.  

 

Refocus  

Staring at a computer screen, TV or reading for several hours can take a toll on your eyes. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, you should look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.  

 

Eat more than carrots 

In addition to carrots, research has shown eating lots of fruits and vegetables, including spinach, kale and collard greens, is good for your eyes. The CDC also refers to studies that say fish high in omega-3 fatty acids is beneficial. Try salmon, tuna and halibut.  

 

Get your dilated eye exam 

According to the National Eye Institute, a dilated eye exam is the best thing you can do to keep your eyes healthy. The exam can detect diseases that don’t have symptoms and enables your eye doctor to treat them earlier, increasing your odds of successfully dealing with them.  

 

Best practices 

As always, if you have concerns about your eye health, contact your eye doctor.  

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Have the vision to keep your eyesight

If you want to keep your vision strong, follow these guidelines to keep your eyes healthy and seeing all they can. 

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Need motivation to exercise? Read this.

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

You have probably heard, “Use it or lose it.” Or “Sitting is the new smoking.” Everywhere you turn, experts encourage exercise. We know it is good for us, but do you know just how good it is? And do you know the immediate benefits?  

In the short term, exercise can:  

  • Help control your appetite. 

  • Boost your mood. 

  • Improve sleep. 

The connection to better sleep is easy. You exercise, you get tired, you sleep better.  

However, exercise can help control your appetite? Research is still delivering mixed results, but multiple studies indicate that exercise, especially longer workouts that are harder to do, often decreases a person’s appetite for hours. You can review one study on the National Library of Medicine website.  

As for boosting your mood, when you exercise, your brain releases the “feel good” hormone dopamine, into your bloodstream, which often makes you feel better. Want to learn more about dopamine? Read this article on Harvard Health Publishing.  

Now that you have extra motivation to exercise, what should you do? For adults, the standard recommendation is 150 minutes of exercise per week. It is easier than you think. You can break it into 30-minute sessions five days a week and still have two days off. For more specifics, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website. You will find recommendations for moderate-intensity aerobic (i.e., walking), vigorous-intensity aerobic (i.e., running) and a mix of both.  

For more insight, read this article on Harvard Health Publishing that explains exercise types, including aerobic, strength training, stretching and balance.  

Before starting any workout program, talk to your family doctor for recommendations so you can safely begin at the appropriate level.  

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Need motivation to exercise? Read this.

Everywhere you turn, experts encourage exercise. We know it is good for us, but do you know just how good it is? And do you know the immediate benefits?  

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