Loss of taste

Overview

Loss of taste, also called ageusia, means you cannot taste things as you normally would. You might notice food has no flavor, or things taste strange — like metallic or bitter. It often goes hand in hand with a reduced sense of smell.

Yes, it is a common symptom. Many people experience it at some point, especially when they have a stuffy nose or respiratory infection.

It can affect anyone, but it is more common in older adults. People who smoke or have certain medical conditions are also more likely to have taste problems.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Not being able to taste sweet, sour, salty, bitter, or savory (umami) flavors
• Food tastes bland or has no flavour at all
• A metallic, bitter, or unpleasant taste in the mouth
• Noticing that food smells different or you can't smell it

Symptoms in children

• Children may not complain directly, but they might refuse to eat foods they used to like
• They may only want very sweet or salty foods
• Often occurs with a cold or fever

Symptoms in older adults

• The sense of taste naturally declines with age, so loss can be gradual
• May lead to poor appetite and unintended weight loss
• Medications are a common cause in older adults

Causes

Main causes

• Colds, the flu, sinus infections, and COVID-19 (these block the nose and affect smell, which changes taste)
• Allergies and nasal polyps
• Injuries to the head or face that damage nerves
• Certain medications (like some antibiotics, blood pressure drugs, or chemotherapy)
• Aging (taste buds become less sensitive)
• Smoking or using tobacco products
• Dental problems, gum disease, or oral infections

Risk factors

• Smoking
• Being older than 60
• Having certain health conditions like diabetes or Parkinson's disease
• Receiving radiation therapy to the head or neck
• Taking multiple medications

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If taste loss happens suddenly with stroke-like symptoms (face drooping, arm weakness, trouble speaking) — call emergency services.
• If you have loss of taste after a head injury or along with severe headache.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If the loss of taste lasts more than a few days and doesn't get better
• If you are losing weight because you cannot enjoy food
• If your taste change is new or bothersome and you are on medications

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, when they started, and what medications you take. They may also examine your mouth, nose, and ears.

Tests that may be done

• Taste tests: you may be asked to identify different flavours (sweet, sour, salty, bitter)
• Smell tests, since taste is closely linked to smell
• Blood tests to check for vitamin deficiencies or infection
• Imaging (like a CT or MRI scan) if a head injury or nerve problem is suspected

What to expect at your appointment

The visit will be straightforward. Your doctor will try to find the cause so they can recommend the best way to help. They may refer you to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for further testing.

Treatment

Treatment depends on what is causing the taste loss. Often, treating the underlying condition (like clearing a sinus infection) will restore taste. If a medication is the cause, your doctor might adjust the dose or switch to a different one.

Self-care at home

• Practice good oral hygiene: brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily
• Stop smoking or using tobacco products
• Add flavour using herbs, spices, lemon juice, or vinegar (if you have no mouth sores)
• Drink enough water and stay hydrated
• Avoid very spicy or acidic foods if they irritate your mouth

Medical treatments

Your doctor may recommend treating allergies with antihistamines or nasal steroid sprays. If a vitamin deficiency is found, supplements may be suggested. For nerve damage, there is no specific treatment, but sometimes the sense of taste improves over time. Never take any supplements without discussing with your healthcare provider first.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed. If nasal polyps or a structural problem in the nose or sinuses is causing the issue, an ENT specialist may recommend a procedure to remove them.

Living with this condition

Focus on the texture, temperature, and smell of food. You can also use colourful ingredients to make meals more appealing. Keep a food diary to note what you can taste and what you enjoy.

Lifestyle tips

• Quit smoking — it can help your taste buds recover
• Avoid very hot or cold foods if they feel strange
• Practice mindful eating: eat slowly and pay attention to what you can sense

Diet and exercise

Make sure you still eat a balanced diet even if food tastes bland. Try different textures (crunchy, creamy) and seasonings (herbs, spices). If you are losing weight, speak to your doctor or a dietitian for advice. Regular exercise can help stimulate appetite.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Losing your sense of taste can be frustrating and may affect your mood. You might feel less interested in eating or socializing. It is normal to feel upset or anxious. Talk to your doctor or a counsellor if it is affecting your quality of life.

Prevention

It is not always possible to prevent loss of taste, but you can lower your risk by avoiding smoking, managing allergies, and practicing good oral hygiene.

Vaccines

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

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for taste loss. If you notice a change, see your doctor for an evaluation.

Complications

If left untreated

• Weight loss and malnutrition if you stop eating properly
• Decreased enjoyment of food and reduced social eating
• Difficulty noticing spoiled or harmful foods

Long-term outlook

For most people, the sense of taste returns on its own once the cause is treated. If the cause is aging or nerve damage, the loss may be permanent, but many people learn to adapt using other senses and still enjoy meals. Talk to your doctor about ways to cope.

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