Metallic flavor in the mouth

Although it may seem strange, the truth is that the sensation of metallic taste in the mouth is very common, especially among the adult population. It is not a disease in itself, but a symptom that can indicate different health disorders. It can be mild or severe, depending on the cause.

The reasons for the metallic taste in the mouth can be very varied. In the most severe cases, it can lead to a total loss of both taste and appetite .

Causes of metallic taste in the mouth

There are several reasons why the metallic taste can occur in the mouth.

Poor oral hygiene

One of the main causes of this condition has to do with poor oral hygiene . Not brushing or flossing after a meal can lead to serious long-term illnesses such as periodontitis. Well, one of the main symptoms of infections in the mouth is precisely the metallic taste.

Dental problems that may be responsible for the metallic taste are as follows.

• Gingivitis: occurs due to the accumulation of bacterial plaque between the teeth and gums, thus forming tartar.
• Periodontitis: it is the consequence of untreated gingivitis. The bacterial plaque ends up affecting the bone.
• Cavities.

Drug treatment

Certain types of medications such as antibiotics and certain drugs for the cardiovascular system can cause the metallic taste in the mouth. Also medications such as antidepressants since they greatly affect taste due to the fact that they close the taste buds.

Infections

Infections that affect the respiratory system in some way such as colds can also change the sense of taste. It is a totally temporary condition that can affect both adults and children. Once the infection is cured with the appropriate treatment, the metallic taste disappears.

Systemic diseases

Another cause of metallic taste in the mouth has to do with certain systematic diseases. Kidney disorders , as well as diabetes or poor liver function. Also others such as vitamin B12 deficiency in the body or hyperthyroidism .

Altered mineral levels

The metallic taste in the mouth can be caused by high levels of minerals, such as iron or copper , in the body. Similarly, zinc deficiency or excess can also lead to this condition.

Pregnancy

Many pregnant women, especially during the first trimester , have changes in their sense of taste. Thus, in a high percentage of cases this condition appears.

Chronic renal insufficiency

If there is any type of abnormality in the kidneys , it is normal that these do not work properly. Thus, there is a certain risk of hazardous wastes accumulating in the body that raise blood pressure. In these cases, the body can retain excess fluids and not produce enough red blood cells to function properly.

Nervous system diseases

Sometimes the metallic taste in the mouth responds to imbalances in neuronal functions . Disorders that affect the nervous system in some way can alter both the sense of taste and smell.

Dementia

Also people with dementia suffer from alterations in taste on a regular basis. It is important to know that the taste buds and the nerves of the brain are connected. Thus, changes in taste occur when the brain area linked to taste does not function properly.

Gastritis

Another cause of this condition is gastritis and other diseases of the digestive system .

Exposure to chemical agents

Exposure for long periods of time to certain chemicals, such as mercury or lead , can produce a metallic taste.

Inhalation of irritants

There are certain professions in which employees are subjected to the inhalation of chemical agents such as rubber dust, gasoline or cobalt, among others.

Chemotherapy or radiation therapy treatment

This is a very common symptom among both adults and children undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy . In many cases it is treated as a side effect of this type of treatment.

Fish poisoning

Consuming certain fish that lead to histamine poisoning can also cause the metallic taste in your mouth. It can happen with mackerel, tuna and bonito.

When to go to the doctor?

In a high percentage of cases, the metallic taste passes after a few days. This occurs when the cause lies in mild illnesses such as a cold for example. However, if it is recurrent or continues to be present over time, it is best to consult your doctor as it may be the sign of a more serious disorder .

Treatment of metallic taste in the mouth

The treatment that is applied is not focused on treating the metallic taste as such, but to combat the disease that has given rise to this sign. Thus, if it has arisen due to a cold, the doctor will recommend following a treatment to deal with the virus and alleviate the symptoms. In any case, maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential.

Home remedies for metallic taste in mouth

There are a number of home remedies that can be of great help in treating this condition.

• Water and salt: water and salt rinses work very well to take care of the gums and eliminate any type of bacteria present in the mouth. Also, it helps reduce inflammation of the throat. It is advisable to make a mouthwash with these ingredients after brushing your teeth.
• Citrus fruits: the consumption of citrus fruits notably stimulates the secretion of saliva . It is therefore a great remedy to minimize the metallic taste in the mouth.
• Oral hygiene: of course, it is very important to maintain correct oral hygiene. It is essential to brush your teeth after meals, also using dental floss and mouthwash to remove all bacteria and food debris.
• Hydration: correct hydration is essential to maintain the proper functioning of the body. It is advisable among the adult population to drink between two and two and a half liters of water daily. This prevents dry mouth.
• Diet: taking into account that altered levels of vitamins can lead to this condition, it is important to eat a healthy and balanced diet.

Conclution

The metallic taste in the mouth is a very common disorder, although too much of it does not speak. And it is that the causes for which it can occur are very broad and diverse. From mild disorders such as a cold to much more serious ones such as chronic kidney failure.

It is recommended to pay special attention to whether the metallic taste persists over time. If so, it is best to go to the doctor to determine what is the cause and establish the most appropriate treatment.