Causes Of Bitter Taste In Mouth

Having a lingering bitter taste in your mouth can be irritating, disgusting and frustrating. Medically, a change in the ability to taste is called Dysgeusia. A bitter taste in the mouth can make an individual lose his desire for food, as a steady unpleasantness from the bitterness prevents him from eating or enjoying anything. The reasons for a bitter taste in the mouth can be manifold. Respiratory problems, bacterial infections, gum, dental and other oral problems, as well as certain types of diseases, drugs and medications are the most common causes for a bitter taste in the mouth. If the bitter taste persists throughout the day, it could also mean that you might have a liver problem. Therefore a proper prognosis and treatment in such cases is vital to avoid affecting your day to day activities. Here are some key reasons as to why one can experience this condition.  

Gingivitis, gum infections, gum diseases, tooth abscesses and pyorrhea are some of the key causes for bitterness and bad taste in the mouth. Mouth ulcers are at times also known to cause a bitter taste. Dental fillings put in by a dentist are also known causes as some people can be allergic to fillings or the treatment as a whole.

Acid reflux which is also known as Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a common cause for a bitter taste in the mouth. In this particular condition, an individual’s stomach juices or acids are pushed back upwards into the throat, and thus he or she experiences a bitter taste in the mouth while eating. Some of the key causes for acid reflux disease are over-eating, consuming fatty and spicy food, and chaotic eating habits and timings. The other symptoms of acid reflux syndrome are indigestion, foul breath, headaches, bloating, gas, queasiness and sore throat.

Certain drugs cause a bitter taste in the mouth. Anti depressants prescribed to those undergoing anxiety and depression treatments, prenatal vitamins given to expectant women and sometimes even common antibiotics are often known to cause oral bitterness.

People suffering from illnesses like jaundice, diabetes, cancer, liver or kidney failure can experience a bitter taste in the mouth.

People who do habitually skip brushing their teeth build up germs, bacteria and plaque in the mouth. All these can trigger off a bitter taste in the mouth.

A surge in estrogen levels especially in women during periods or pregnancy can cause a bitter taste in the mouth.

Lead toxicity, copper toxicity and mercury poisoning can also cause bitterness and a kind of sharp metallic taste in the mouth.