Can sewer gas leak into bathroom pipes? Any plumbers out there who can help explain these bad smells?

I have noticed for quite some time that occasionally, my bathroom has a strong vial smell, almost like raw sewage. No, this is not typical "bathroom odors", it is unbearably strong. I figured out it is coming from the toilet. This happens even when the toilet has not been used for several hours. I have a city sewer system, not a septic tank. What could be causing this? Can gases leak up from the sewer system? Any ideas? It seems to be getting worse and worse. Please help!!

Answers:
If you're sure it's coming from the toilet itself, it's probably a plugged vent pipe that extends through the roof. Does the water gurgle in the bowl?

If the vent is not plugged, have the City come out and check the sewers to make sure they are not backing up and that the manhole covers are not covered with asphalt. (Manhole covers usually have holes in them to slowly release gases and to keep the sewers from "airlocking".)

If these check ok, you may have to have the City or a plumber install a "P' trap or check valve on your sewer lateral.

Other answers:
You should have a trap on your commode. It resembles "S" layed on it's side. The trap keeps water in it, the water acts as a barrier to keep the gases from rising. Try this link to help you further understand:

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