Why does blood taste metallic

Research shows that the body excretes metformin into the saliva. Some other medications that can cause a metallic taste in the mouth include those for chemotherapy and radiation therapy , as well as:. In addition, some drugs — such as anticholinergics — may cause a dry mouth. People may experience this as a metallic taste. Taste changes are a common side effect of many cancer therapies, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

The American Cancer Society suggest the following tips for people who experience taste changes due to cancer treatment:. Substances that contain metals — such as iron, zinc, and copper — can also cause a metallic taste in the mouth. Experts believe that this happens when the mineral causes oxidation of the salivary protein. Prenatal vitamins and calcium supplements may have this effect. Scientists have found that closing the nasal passage may reduce the metallic taste from iron, but not from other minerals.

The National Health Service NHS suggest that early pregnancy often causes taste changes, including a metallic taste in the mouth. Pregnancy can also cause cravings or a dislike for certain foods. Both of these symptoms tend to go away with time. Because the taste buds send signals to the brain, taste changes can occur if part of the brain is not working as it should. Research suggests that dysgeusia commonly affects older adults, especially those receiving residential care.

This may affect their appetite and nutritional status. A metallic taste in the mouth can sometimes be a symptom of Guillain-Barre syndrome. This is an autoimmune condition that affects the peripheral nervous system. In , researchers described a person with this syndrome whose only symptom in the early stages was dysgeusia. A metallic taste can be an early symptom of anaphylaxis , a severe allergic reaction.

Dysgeusia, a change in your sense of taste, can be a side effect of a variety of medical issues. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission.

We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. A metallic taste can indicate a serious illness, such as kidney or liver problems, undiagnosed diabetes or certain cancers. But these reasons are uncommon and typically accompanied by other symptoms. Ford says. These infections can be cleared up with a prescription from your dentist. Picking the best fitness watch for you Fitness watches and trackers are extremely popular these days. Benefits of kettlebell swings The kettlebell swing is one of the foundational movements of kettlebell exercises and has many benefits.

Get tips from Ohio State experts right to your inbox. Email address. First name. Last name. Date of birth. ZIP code. Gender Male Female Prefer not to say. Thank you! Diabetes and low blood sugar are both known to cause taste disturbances, including a metallic taste in the mouth.

Neurological problems, such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease , can cause the brain to misinterpret signals coming from the taste buds. This can result in loss of appetite and a metallic taste in the mouth. Other neurological problems that can cause this include:. Another serious cause of a metallic taste in your mouth is kidney failure. Uremic toxicity excessive uric acid , which is due to a loss of kidney function, can cause taste changes like this. Of course, this symptom alone is hardly the only sign.

Some people with burning mouth syndrome—a chronic condition that causes a burning pain sensation on the tongue or mucous membranes without another identifiable cause—will also experience a bitter and metallic taste.

Medications used to treat burning mouth syndrome, including tricyclic antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and gabapentin, may help minimize the metallic taste. If you briefly experience a metallic taste in your mouth, it's probably not a concern. Take note if you have recently started any new medications, as this is an extremely common culprit.

However, if you persistently have this experience and exhibit other worrisome symptoms, you should see your healthcare provider. Preventing that metallic taste in your mouth mostly depends on the cause. However, there are a few general strategies that may help minimize the metallic taste or at least make it more bearable. Here are a few to consider:. Some examples include multivitamins containing copper, zinc, and chromium , prenatal vitamins, and calcium or iron supplements.

The metallic taste will usually fade as your body processes the vitamins. If you're noticing a metallic taste regularly, check to make sure that you're taking the right dosage. Try waiting to eat a couple of hours after your treatment. You might also try eating food with strong spices or sauces to see if they help cover up the metallic taste.

Some studies have looked at whether zinc and vitamin D can help with the metallic taste after chemo, but more research is needed. It may be caused by an upper respiratory infection or sinus infection. If the metallic taste persists or gets worse, let your healthcare provider know. If you're having other severe symptoms, such as coughing up blood or having trouble breathing, seek immediate medical care.

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