Salty taste in the mouth: that could be the green ones
That arises after eating certain foods salty taste in the mouth set is not surprising. But sometimes the salty taste shows up “just like that”. An expert explains why this is and what can be done about it.
The ear, nose and throat doctor Dr. Michael Medina explained in a recent contribution from the renowned Cleveland Clinic (USA) the most common reasons for a salty taste in the mouth and what you can do about it.
Why does the mouth taste salty?
In most cases, a salty taste in the mouth isn’t a medical emergency — but it’s a sign that shouldn’t be ignored. The most common reasons for salt taste in the mouth are:
dehydration
Saliva naturally contains a small amount of salt. But if you’re not well hydrated, the salt in your saliva becomes more concentrated. „dehydration changes the quality of your saliva”says Dr. Medina. “Often you can get rid of the salty taste by drinking enough water every day.”
However, patients with heart or kidney problems must be careful here. “People taking diuretics for heart or kidney disease may need to limit their water intake”warns the ENT doctor. “If you have health problems, ask your doctor how much water you should be drinking each day.”
dry mouth
dry mouth, also called xerostomia, is when the salivary glands don’t produce enough saliva. Sufferers may notice taste issues, including a salty or metallic taste. Other symptoms such as bad breath and constant sore throat usually also occur.
Dry mouth, which is more common as you age, can also indicate certain health problems, such as diabetes.
Affected people can often use over-the-counter products such as lozenges and mouthwashes help, says the doctor. If this is not the case, medical advice should be sought. Long-term dry mouth can increase the risk of tooth decay.
medication
Certain medications can cause dry mouth as a side effect, resulting in a salty or metallic taste in the mouth. If you prescription medication and notice a dry mouth, talk to your doctor. There may be alternative preparations.
Drugs that can cause dry mouth or a salty taste include antidepressants, particularly tricyclics Antidepressantsantihistamines, chemotherapy drugs for cancer treatment, Diureticswhich are usually prescribed for heart or kidney problems, pain relievers, and sedatives used to treat anxiety, panic disorders, or trouble sleeping.
Postnasal drip
Allergies or a long-term sinus infection can lead to postnasal drip (Postnasal-Drip Syndrome) to lead. Liquid secretion from the nasopharynx drips down the throat.
“If you have postnasal drip, you may feel like you always want to clear your throat or cough”, explains Dr. Medina. There may also be a salty taste in the mouth. Victims should seek medical help.
pregnancy
The hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause inflammation in the nose. Commonly referred to as rhinitis of pregnancy, this harmless condition causes postnasal drip and sometimes a salty taste.
Usually, pregnancy rhinitis goes away a few weeks after the end of the pregnancy. Meanwhile, you can by saline nasal sprays get some relief.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD (Chronic Acid Reflux) occurs when your stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. “GERD can cause a salty or sour taste”, explains Dr. Medina. “Most people with GERD also have heartburn, a chronic cough, or a feeling that something is stuck in their throat.”
Often can medication help to neutralize stomach acid or reduce acid production. Untreated GERD can damage your esophagus and increase your risk of certain health problems.
autoimmune diseases
An autoimmune disease causes your body’s immune system to attack healthy tissue. If you have an autoimmune disease such as lupus or rheumatoid Arthritis suffer, you have a higher risk of getting Sjögren’s syndrome. This condition affects your salivary glands, resulting in a dry mouth and altered taste.
If you have a dry or salty mouth and a diagnosed autoimmune disease have, tell your doctor. They may recommend dry mouth remedies or other treatments to help.
neurological disorders
Any abnormal taste, including a persistent salty taste, can mean that the taste signals of your brain are not functioning as they should. This can be due to a brain injury or a tumor, among other things. But this cause of salty taste is rare.
When to seek medical help
A salty taste in itself is often present dehydration or dry mouth. Contact your doctor if you have a salty taste and:
- Change in your voice or hoarseness
- a lump in your throat
- swelling of the salivary glands in front of your ear or under your jaw
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- certain diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, or an autoimmune disease
“Often you can get rid of a salty taste with proper hydration and dry mouth products”, notes Dr. Medina. “But it’s important to find out the cause so you can get the right treatment.” (ad)
Author and source information
This text corresponds to the specifications of medical specialist literature, medical guidelines and current studies and has been checked by medical professionals.
Sources:
- Cleveland Clinic: What’s Causing That Salty Taste in Your Mouth?, (Abruf: 04.06.2022), Cleveland Clinic
Important NOTE:
This article contains general advice only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. He can not substitute a visit at the doctor.