Mucus normally contains amounts of bacteria and proteins coming from the sinus cavities. The proteins get broken down into amino acids which feeds the anerobic bacteria. The mucus also helps bacteria which causes bad breath (halitosis) to avoid being exposed to oxygen. This type of bacteria is killed when exposed to oxygen, so the protection given it by the mucus only gives the bacteria an environment in which it can thrive and produce bad breath. People who are in the midst of a cold or the flu usually produce large amounts of this type of mucus.
It's quite possible that sinus trouble means you have very bad breath. When other remedies have been used to no avail, you may want to talk with your physician or an ear nose and throat specialist who treats sinus conditions. Another remedy is a nasal wash, as this can assist with removing mucus and bacteria from the sinuses, lessen any postnasal drip you have and help clean out your sinuses. If there is a blockage however, a nasal wash is insufficient to remove it.
Answered by
Tanman
at
Sep 6, 2010 12:16 PM