Bad Breath and Sinus Issues Could Signal Heart Disease, Says Cardiologist

Your risk of cardiovascular disease isn’t determined solely by heart health. According to Dr. Pradip Jamnadas, MD, an interventional cardiologist, several other factors—including your oral and nasal microbiome—play a key role.

In a recent Instagram post and an appearance on The Diary of a CEO podcast, Dr. Jamnadas highlighted how poor dental hygiene and harmful mouth bacteria, often causing bad breath, are linked to serious heart conditions.

“There’s unequivocal data to show that if you have bad teeth, poor dental hygiene, and bad bacteria in your mouth, you’re at risk of valvular disease, aortic valve calcification, and coronary calcification,” he explained.

He further emphasized the role of chronic sinusitis—a persistent infection of the maxillary and frontal sinuses causing headaches, blocked nose, and cough—which can trigger inflammation linked to premature coronary artery disease. Fungal sinus infections, in particular, can cause low-grade inflammation impacting the heart.

Dr. Jamnadas stressed that cardiovascular health is influenced by the entire body and lifestyle—oral hygiene, nasal health, diet, mental health, and physical activity all affect the heart.

“We’re expanding our understanding of coronary artery disease. Everything in your lifestyle—mental, physical, dietary—can impact your coronary arteries,” he said.

This insight underscores the importance of holistic health care, including maintaining oral hygiene and monitoring sinus health, as early indicators of potential heart problems.