Causes of loss of taste

Overview

Loss of taste is when you cannot taste things as well as you used to, or you cannot taste anything at all. It can affect your ability to enjoy food and may lead to poor appetite. This condition is often temporary and related to other health issues.

Yes, it is quite common, especially after a cold, flu, sinus infection, or COVID-19. Many adults experience it at least once.

Anyone can lose their sense of taste, but it is more common in older adults, people who smoke, and those with certain medical conditions like diabetes or gum disease.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Not being able to taste sweet, salty, sour, bitter, or savory flavors
• Food tasting bland or having no flavor at all
• Tasting a metallic or salty taste in your mouth (this is called dysgeusia)

Symptoms in children

• Refusing to eat or being picky about food
• Not gaining weight as expected
• Complaining that food tastes 'funny' or 'bad'

Symptoms in older adults

• Eating less and losing weight without trying
• Feeling depressed or less interested in meals
• Adding too much salt or sugar to food to try to taste it

Causes

Main causes

• Blocked nose from a cold, flu, sinusitis, or allergies
• COVID-19 infection
• Smoking or vaping
• Getting older – taste buds become less sensitive with age
• Head injury, especially to the nose or skull
• Ear, nose, or throat infections
• Certain prescription medications (talk to your doctor if you think this applies)
• Dental problems or gum disease
• Zinc deficiency (rare)

Risk factors

• Being older than 60
• Smoking or using tobacco products
• Having a chronic illness such as diabetes, Parkinson's disease, or Alzheimer's
• Poor oral hygiene
• Taking multiple medications

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you lose your taste suddenly along with stroke symptoms (face drooping, arm weakness, speech problems)
• If you have a head injury and then lose your taste
• If you have trouble breathing or swallowing

Book a routine appointment if:

• If your loss of taste does not improve after a cold or infection clears up
• If it affects your appetite or leads to weight loss
• If you are worried about a medication side effect

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent illnesses. They will also look inside your mouth and nose and may test your ability to taste different flavors.

Tests that may be done

• Taste test – you taste different substances (sweet, salty, sour, bitter) to see which ones you can identify
• Smell test – because smell and taste are linked, your doctor may test your sense of smell
• Blood tests – to check for infections, vitamin or mineral deficiencies, or other health conditions
• Imaging (like CT or MRI) – if a head injury or neurological cause is suspected

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will do a thorough exam and ask about what you have eaten, what medications you take, and any recent illnesses. The tests are painless and usually done in the clinic. You may be referred to an ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT) for further checks.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause. Often the taste loss goes away when the underlying problem is treated. Your doctor will work with you to find the right approach.

Self-care at home

• Keep your mouth clean by brushing your teeth twice a day and sometimes using a tongue scraper
• Rinse your mouth with a mild salt water solution (1/4 teaspoon salt in a glass of warm water) to help clear taste-altering bacteria
• Add more herbs, spices, and strong flavors like lemon or garlic to your food if it tastes bland
• Stay hydrated – drink plenty of water
• Avoid smoking and vaping

Medical treatments

If an infection is the cause, your doctor may recommend antibiotics or antiviral medicines. If a medication you take is affecting your taste, your doctor might adjust the dose or switch you to a different one. In cases of nutrient deficiency, supplements may be suggested after blood tests. For chronic conditions like nasal polyps, your doctor may prescribe a steroid nasal spray. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed, but it may be an option if the loss of taste is due to nasal polyps, sinus infections that do not improve with treatment, or growths in the mouth or nose.

Living with this condition

Loss of taste can make eating less enjoyable. Try to focus on the texture, temperature, and appearance of food. Use a variety of colors and spices to make meals more appealing. Be careful with food safety – you might not be able to tell if something is spoiled, so check dates and smells carefully.

Lifestyle tips

• Talk to your doctor if you smoke – quitting can improve your taste and overall health
• Ask a dietitian for help planning nutritious meals that you can still enjoy
• Check your mouth regularly for signs of gum disease or dental problems

Diet and exercise

Even if food tastes bland, it is important to eat a balanced diet. Try foods with strong flavors like citrus, ginger, or mint. If you are losing weight, talk to your doctor about adding healthy calories. Gentle exercise can also boost your appetite.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Loss of taste can be frustrating and may make you feel sad or anxious about eating. It can affect social situations like sharing meals with family. If you feel down, tell your doctor. They can support you or refer you to a counsellor. If you ever feel you need immediate help for your mental health, call your local crisis helpline or emergency number.

Prevention

It is not always possible to prevent loss of taste, but there are steps you can take to lower your risk. Good oral hygiene, avoiding smoking, and treating infections early can help.

Vaccines

Staying up to date with vaccines, such as the flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine, can reduce the chance of getting infections that might cause taste loss.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for loss of taste. However, regular dental check-ups can catch mouth problems early.

Complications

If left untreated

• Unintended weight loss and malnutrition
• Depression or social withdrawal due to loss of pleasure from eating
• Accidentally eating spoiled food because you cannot detect off-flavors
• Worsening of underlying health problems like diabetes or heart disease if diet becomes unbalanced

Long-term outlook

Most people regain their sense of taste within a few weeks after the underlying cause is treated. Even if the loss lasts longer, there are many ways to adapt and still enjoy food and maintain good nutrition. With your doctor's help, you can manage it well.

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