What Causes Loss Of Sense Of Taste While On Triamterene?

Posted on Wed, 28 Dec 2016

Question: I lost my sense of taste. My ENT doctor tested me for a fungal infection behind my tongue and prescribed an antifungal medication for 7 days. The 5th day the doctor called me and told me no fungal infection and to stop the pills immediately. I asked what I do now and he said to see an oral surgeon. Will my sense of tast ever come back?

Answered by Dr. Honey Arora (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Detailed below..

Detailed Answer:
Hi..
Welcome to HEALTHCARE MAGIC..

As per your query loss of sense of taste can occur due to number of causes but before I can guide you further I would like to know a few more details..

Please answer the following questions.

1.Is the loss of taste sudden?
2.Is there a complete loss of taste or you can taste a little?
3.Do you have a dry mouth?
4.Did you recently had any trauma to head?
5.Did you ever been diagnosed Zinc deficiency?
6.Do you have any medical problems or are you on any medications?
7.Any symptoms like burning in mouth, white coating or smooth appearance of tongue?
8.Is there any reduction in smelling tendency or is it normal?

Please revert back with answers..

Regards .

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Honey Arora (2 hours later)

Total loss of taste for about a month now. No dry mouth or head trauma. I am not aware of a zince deficiency. I take triamterine, levothyroxin and amlodepine. My tongue feels like I burned it but I didn't. My smelling has been weak for the past few years.

PLEASE HELP ME--IS THERE ANYTHING THAT CAN BE DONE???

Answered by Dr. Honey Arora (11 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Detailed below..

Detailed Answer:
Hi..
Welcome back..

As per your answers, it seems to be more like side effect of medication that you are taking as not commonly but in very few causes Triamterine can cause loss of taste..
Burnt feeling of tongue can be due to medicine side effects along with some reduced saliva flow..

But as the smelling is also effected and taste and smell sensation is inter-related, you need to get a thorough examination done as it can be a nerve related issue..
A Neurophysician can also be consulted in this regards..

If the condition can be reversed or not, this can be commented only after a thorough clinical examination and investigations and confirmation of the exact cause of the problem..

Hope this helps..

Regards..

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Veerisetty Shyamkumar