What Your Breath May Say About Health

Sweet and Fruity: Sweet or fruity breath can be an indication of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a dangerous complication of diabetes. Ketosis is a condition when your body breaks down fat for energy, which can produce a sweet smell similar to fruit. It occurs when your blood sugar has reached dangerously high levels.

Acetonic or Nail Polish Remover: A strong acetone odor can also be a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). This smell comes from the breakdown of fat for energy instead of glucose.

Ammonia: Ammonia breath can be a sign of kidney disease. When the kidneys are not working properly, they can't remove urea and other waste products from the blood, which can lead to a buildup of ammonia in the body.

Fishy: Fishy breath can be a sign of trimethylaminuria (TMAU), a genetic disorder that results from the body's inability to break down certain compounds.

Rotten Eggs: Rotten egg smell in your breath can indicate liver or digestive issues. When your liver is damaged, it can't process sulfur compounds properly, leading to a strong smell of sulfur in your breath.

Garlic or Onion: Eating foods like garlic or onion can result in a strong smell in your breath, which can be mistaken for a sign of a medical issue.

Sour or Vinegary: Sour or vinegary breath can be caused by acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition where stomach acids back up into the esophagus.

Metallic: Metallic breath is often associated with blood in the saliva, often due to poor oral hygiene or gum disease.

Remember that these are general indications, and it's always essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. If you notice any changes in your breath's smell or taste that concern you, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor or dentist.