Bad or changed breath: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Call emergency services now if changed breath occurs with:

   • Trouble breathing or swallowing
   • Drooling or inability to swallow saliva
   • Rapidly increasing swelling of the tongue, face, jaw, or neck
   • Fruity breath with deep or difficult breathing, vomiting, confusion, or marked drowsiness

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   These symptoms need urgent assessment.

   Fruity breath is especially concerning in someone with diabetes or very high blood sugar.

   Arrange same-day dental or medical care for facial or jaw swelling with fever, severe tooth pain, pus around a tooth, or difficulty opening your mouth.

   These can be signs of an infection that is spreading.

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • is getting rapidly more short of breath, or has gained several pounds in a few days with swelling
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Book a routine dental appointment if the odor lasts for several weeks despite regular brushing, tongue cleaning, and cleaning between your teeth.

   Also arrange an appointment for bleeding gums, loose teeth, ongoing dry mouth, tooth pain, or poorly fitting dentures.

   If a dentist does not find a mouth-related cause, make a routine medical appointment.

   This is particularly useful if you also have ongoing nasal blockage, throat symptoms, reflux symptoms, or a change in your sense of smell.

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • is more tired or breathless than usual doing things they used to manage
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Bad or changed breath. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.