A metallic taste in mouth can be caused by conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux, chronic kidney disease, pregnancy, the use of medications or supplements, or poor oral hygiene.
Depending on the cause, other symptoms may also appear, including heartburn, indigestion, fatigue, bad breath, or memory loss.
If metallic taste in mouth happens often or does not improve after a few days, it is recommended to see a general practitioner or a gastroenterologist to identify the cause and recommend proper treatment.
Main causes
A metallic taste in the mouth can be caused by:
1. Gastroesophageal reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux can lead to metallic taste in mouth due to the backflow of acidic stomach contents into the esophagus. Other symptoms may include a lump sensation in the throat, heartburn, indigestion, and burning.
What to do: treatment should be prescribed by a gastroenterologist or general practitioner and may include medications that speed up stomach emptying, reduce stomach acid, or neutralize acidity, such as metoclopramide, omeprazole, esomeprazole, or antacids. It is also important to maintain a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and lean proteins like chicken, tofu, or white fish.
2. Chronic kidney disease
Metallic taste in mouth and bad breath can occur in chronic kidney disease because reduced kidney function may cause uremia, a condition in which urea and other toxic substances build up in the blood.
What to do: a nephrologist or general practitioner may prescribe medications such as antihypertensives, statins, or antidiabetics. Depending on kidney function, dialysis or a kidney transplant may also be recommended.
3. Pregnancy
Metallic taste in mouth is a common pregnancy symptom, especially during the first trimester, due to hormonal changes that affect taste and smell. Other symptoms of pregnancy can include morning sickness, mood changes, and fatigue
Also recommended: 14 Pregnancy Symptoms (by week) & Early Signs You're Pregnant tuasaude.com/en/pregnancy-symptomsWhat to do: tips that may help reduce metallic taste in mouth include brushing the teeth and tongue thoroughly, using dental floss and mouthwash, drinking citrus juices like lemon or orange juice, and seasoning foods with vinegar.
4. Medication use
Certain medications, such as antibiotics, antidepressants, and drugs used to treat gout, diabetes, or high blood pressure, can cause metallic taste in mouth. This occurs because the medicines are absorbed and then eliminated through saliva.
What to do: chewing sugar-free, mint-free gum, brushing teeth after meals, and avoiding metal utensils may temporarily reduce the metallic taste. If it becomes too uncomfortable, a doctor may evaluate the possibility of switching to a different medication with fewer side effects.
5. Poor oral hygiene
Poor oral hygiene can cause metallic taste in mouth due to bacteria buildup on the tongue, teeth, and gums, which can also lead to bad breath.
What to do: brushing teeth at least twice a day and cleaning the tongue properly are recommended to avoid bacterial buildup, which is a common cause of unpleasant taste in mouth.
6. Side effects of supplements
Supplements containing iron, zinc, copper, chromium, or potassium can cause metallic taste in mouth. This side effect is common and usually occurs only while the supplement is being absorbed.
What to do: waiting a few minutes after taking the supplement often helps, as absorption reduces the taste. If the metallic taste is frequent or very strong, a doctor may recommend reducing the dose or changing the supplement.
7. Respiratory infections
Respiratory infections such as colds, flu, or sinusitis can alter taste and smell, leading to metallic taste in mouth.
What to do: taste typically returns to normal once the infection resolves. Treatment depends on the cause and may include pain relievers, antibiotics, antihistamines, or fever reducers. Drinking fluids and resting are also important.
8. Dementia
Because the brain is directly connected to the taste buds, dementia can cause changes in taste perception, including metallic taste in mouth.
What to do: treatment may involve medications such as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, antidepressants, mood stabilizers, or antipsychotics, prescribed by a geriatrician or general practitioner. Physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy are also recommended to improve quality of life and slow disease progression.
9. Vitamin B12 deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause metallic taste in mouth due to nervous system damage that affects taste. Other symptoms may include tingling or numbness in the hands, legs, or feet, frequent fatigue, and memory loss.
What to do: treatment should be guided by a doctor or nutritionist and may include oral supplements, injections, and a diet rich in vitamin B12, such as beef, fish, eggs, and dairy products.
10. Cancer treatments
Metallic taste in mouth may develop during chemotherapy with drugs such as cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, cisplatin, fluorouracil, or methotrexate, which can damage taste buds. Radiation therapy for head and neck cancer can also alter taste, causing metallic taste, dry mouth, and throat pain.
What to do: ways to relieve metallic taste in mouth include using herbs and spices in meals, brushing teeth after eating, eating cold or room-temperature foods, chewing sugar-free gum, sucking on sugar-free candies, and using plastic or bamboo utensils. Rinsing the mouth with a solution made by dissolving 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of baking soda in 4 cups of water can also help improve food flavor.