Mouth Tasting Sour? Explore the 9 Most Ordinary Causes Identified
A persistent sour taste in the mouth can be an uncomfortable and disconcerting experience. Dr. Mark Rood, a family medicine physician, has identified nine common causes of this issue.
One common cause is dehydration, which reduces saliva production and alters the composition of saliva, leading to a sour or bitter taste [1][5]. Dehydration can be caused by various factors such as excessive sweating, diarrhea, vomiting, or insufficient fluid intake. To prevent or alleviate this issue, it's essential to maintain proper hydration by regularly drinking water throughout the day, not just when thirsty [2].
Another cause could be certain medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, that can affect the taste buds and cause a sour taste in the mouth [3]. This includes antibiotics, antipsychotics, chemotherapy, and COVID-19 treatment Paxlovid, among others. If you suspect that your medication is causing a sour taste, consult your healthcare provider for advice.
Oral thrush, a yeast infection that affects the mouth and tongue, can also cause a sour taste and is characterized by white patches on the tongue [1]. If you notice these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention.
Other medical conditions, such as diabetes, liver disease, and kidney disease, can also cause a sour taste in the mouth [3]. If you have been diagnosed with any of these conditions, discuss any changes in your taste with your healthcare provider.
Smoking can cause a sour taste in the mouth and also dull the sense of taste [2]. If you are a smoker and are experiencing a sour taste, consider seeking help to quit.
Infections or illnesses can affect the taste buds, causing a sour taste in the mouth. This sour taste should resolve as the illness improves [1]. If your sour taste persists for weeks, it could be a subtle sign of a serious medical condition, and discussing it with a healthcare provider is recommended [4].
Other unexpected causes include anxiety disorders, zinc deficiency, and hormonal changes associated with pregnancy or menopause [3]. If you suspect any of these could be the cause, consult your healthcare provider.
In conclusion, ensuring adequate fluid intake and managing underlying digestive or systemic conditions are key to preventing or reducing sour taste linked to poor hydration. Good oral hygiene is also crucial to reduce acid buildup and bacterial growth that contribute to bad taste and dry mouth [5]. If a sour taste in the mouth persists, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any serious underlying conditions.
References:
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Sour taste in the mouth: Causes and remedies. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sour-taste-in-the-mouth/symptoms-causes/syc-20354862
[2] Healthline. (2021). Why does my mouth taste sour? Causes and remedies. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/sour-taste-in-mouth
[3] Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Sour taste in the mouth: Causes and treatment. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/11004-sour-taste-in-the-mouth
[4] WebMD. (2021). Sour taste in the mouth: Causes and treatment. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/sour-taste-in-the-mouth
[5] Medical News Today. (2021). Sour taste in the mouth: Causes, prevention, and treatment. Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325992
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