Browse Medications by Everyday Health Concerns: Loss of taste

Loss of taste, or ageusia, is the inability to perceive flavors in food or drink. It can range from a partial loss of taste, where certain flavors are harder to detect, to a complete loss. While temporary changes in taste are often linked to colds or infections, ongoing loss of taste could be a sign of an underlying condition. Understanding the cause of your taste changes can empower you to take the right steps toward regaining your taste and improving your health.

Symptoms of loss of taste include:

• Difficulty detecting flavors, even with strongly flavored foods
• A metallic or sour taste in the mouth
• A reduced sense of flavor intensity, such as with sweet or salty foods
• Loss of enjoyment when eating or drinking

Loss of taste can be caused by:

• Upper respiratory infections, like colds or COVID-19, which can temporarily affect taste
• Sinus infections or allergies that block the smell and taste senses
• Medications, especially those used for high blood pressure or cancer treatments
• Neurological conditions, such as Parkinson's disease or a stroke
• Nutritional deficiencies, particularly zinc deficiency

Risk factors include:

• Having a cold, flu, or sinus infection
• Exposure to certain medications, such as antibiotics or chemotherapy
• Older age, as taste and smell sensitivity can decrease with time
• Smoking, which can impair taste and smell
• Chronic conditions like diabetes or neurological diseases

Diagnosing loss of taste typically involves:

• A physical examination and discussion of symptoms
• Smell tests, as taste is often closely linked with smell
• Blood tests to check for nutritional deficiencies or underlying health conditions
• A thorough review of current medications, if relevant

Treatment for loss of taste depends on the cause and may include:

• Treating infections with antibiotics or antiviral medications
• Changing medications if they are causing the loss of taste
• Supplements for nutritional deficiencies like zinc or vitamin B12
• Managing chronic conditions with proper care and medications

For loss of taste caused by infections or deficiencies, medications such as antibiotics, antiviral drugs, or supplements may be prescribed. NiHowdy makes these treatments more affordable, so you can stay on top of your health and regain your taste without financial stress.

To prevent loss of taste, consider:

• Maintaining good hygiene to avoid infections
• Avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol consumption
• Getting regular check-ups to manage chronic conditions
• Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals

At home, you can manage loss of taste by:

• Adding spices or herbs to meals to enhance flavor
• Using strong-flavored foods, like citrus, to stimulate your taste buds
• Staying hydrated to help support overall health
• Avoiding overly processed or bland foods that can further diminish taste

If loss of taste persists for more than a few weeks or is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, headache, or loss of smell, it's important to seek medical help. Early intervention can help address the underlying cause and improve your sense of taste.

NiHowdy makes medications and treatments for loss of taste more affordable, offering savings on prescriptions and supplements. With Bitcoin rebates, NiHowdy helps you manage your treatment costs and improve your overall health.

Jenny experienced loss of taste after a sinus infection. With the right medication and treatment, her taste returned to normal. NiHowdy's savings on her prescribed antibiotics helped her stay consistent with her treatment, allowing her to regain her taste and enjoy meals again.