Common causes of metallic taste
There are a number of things that can potentially cause a metallic taste, including:
- taking medicine, such as antibiotics - speak to a pharmacist for advice but don't stop taking prescribed medicine without medical advice
- cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy - you should try eating stronger tasting food, like ginger, spices or boiled sweets
- colds, sinus infections and other airway problems - the taste should go away once the problem has cleared up
- indigestion - the taste should go away when you treat your indigestion
- pregnancy - the taste is usually temporary and clears up by itself
- gum disease - regularly brush your teeth, use dental floss, have a check-up at the dentist every six months
Sometimes, a metallic taste can be linked to a problem with your sense of smell.
When to see your GP
You should speak to your GP or dentist if:
- the metallic taste doesn't go away
- it has no obvious cause