Dysgeusia: The Disorder That Distorts Your Sense of Taste

What is Dysgeusia?

Dysgeusia is a disorder that distorts your sense of taste. People with this condition often say that anything they eat or drink tastes metallic, sour, bitter, or sweet.

Causes of Dysgeusia

Dysgeusia can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Medications
• Medical conditions (such as diabetes, kidney disease, and liver disease)
• Head injuries
• Dental problems
• Smoking
• Aging

Symptoms of Dysgeusia

The most common symptom of dysgeusia is a change in your sense of taste. You may also experience:

• A metallic or sour taste in your mouth
• A bitter or sweet taste in your mouth
• A loss of taste
• A distorted sense of taste

Treatment for Dysgeusia

The treatment for dysgeusia depends on the underlying cause. If the cause is a medication, your doctor may be able to switch you to a different medication. If the cause is a medical condition, your doctor may be able to treat the condition and improve your sense of taste. In some cases, dysgeusia may go away on its own.

Prevention of Dysgeusia

There is no surefire way to prevent dysgeusia. However, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of developing this condition, including:

• Avoiding medications that can cause dysgeusia
• Managing any medical conditions that you have
• Protecting your head from injury
• Maintaining good oral hygiene
• Quitting smoking