Why does liver disease cause bad breath?

Jun 28, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My grandfather has had liver disease for a long time, but recently he has been feeling that he has bad breath. Why can liver disease cause bad breath?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
The main causes of bad breath resulting from liver disease include the following aspects: 1. Liver disease can cause impaired liver function and liver cell necrosis, which affects the breakdown of methionine. During the decomposition of methionine, substances such as ammonia, dimethyl sulfide, and methyl mercaptan are released. Accumulation of these substances in the body can be difficult to eliminate and may be exhaled through the mouth, causing bad breath. 2. Abnormal liver function caused by liver disease can also affect gastrointestinal function, leading to slower gastrointestinal motility and reduced digestive and absorptive capacity. Accumulation and fermentation of food in the digestive tract further worsen bad breath symptoms. 3. Liver disease may also lead to increased levels of blood urea nitrogen and ammonia, especially in the late stages of cirrhosis, when the liver's metabolic and detoxification functions are significantly reduced. These substances can be expelled through respiration via the mouth and nose, causing the breath to emit a rotten apple-like odor or ammonia-like smell, which is another important cause of bad breath associated with liver disease. If you have any concerns, please consult a relevant healthcare professional.