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Taste changes

Taste changes may include the complete loss of taste (ageusia), partial loss of taste (hypogeusia), a distorted sense of taste (dysgeusia), such as a metallic taste, or an unpleasant or revolting taste (cacogeusia)

A decrease in or loss of taste is common in older adults. It is part of the normal aging process and may be caused by:

  • A decrease in the number of taste buds.
  • Changes in the way the nervous system processes the sensation of taste. This may cause a decline in the awareness of taste.
  • A decreased amount of saliva or an increased stickiness of saliva.
  • Changes in the tongue, making it harder for flavors to reach the taste buds.

Other factors that may cause taste change include:

  • A dry mouth.
  • Loss of smell. Much of what is thought of as taste is actually smell.
  • Minor infections, such as a cold or flu.
  • Cigarette smoking or the use of smokeless (spit) tobacco.
  • Medication or surgery. Medications that commonly distort taste include thyroid medications, captopril, griseofulvin, lithium, penicillamine, procarbazine, rifampin, vinblastine, and vincristine.
  • Nutritional deficiencies of zinc or vitamin B12.
  • Injury.
  • Certain diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Bell's palsy, hepatitis, Sjögren's syndrome, and oral cancer.
Author Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Steven K. Patterson, BSc, DDS, MPH - Dentist
Last Updated September 26, 2008

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: September 26, 2008
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.