Description
Dysgeusia is an abnormal taste or change in taste that won't go away. It can be described as bad, metallic, salty, foul, or rancid. Some people with dysgeusia also have an altered sense of smell (dysosmia). Dysgeusia is relatively uncommon. It can have numerous causes. They include viral infections, smoking, gum disease, dental abscess, certain medicines, dry mouth, vitamin deficiency, certain medical conditions, or an allergy to dental materials.
Symptoms
Change in the sense of taste and sometimes smell.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests may be done to evaluate your sense of taste and smell. Imaging tests, blood tests, or saliva flow rate test may be done.
Other Specific Tests: MRI, CT scan, saliva flow rate
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Dentistry, Dentistry - Pediatric
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests may be done to evaluate your sense of taste and smell. Imaging tests, blood tests, or saliva flow rate test may be done.
Other Specific Tests: MRI, CT scan, saliva flow rate
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Dentistry, Dentistry - Pediatric
Treatment
Treatment is directed at the underlying cause. If the cause can be found and treated, the outlook is excellent. If no cause can be found, it is called "idiopathic dysgeusia" and the outlook is unknown.