What Causes Metallic Taste In Mouth And Foamy Saliva

Posted on Sat, 15 Nov 2014

Question: Hi! I have a metallic/soapy taste in my mouth that gets worse when I eat or drink anything. My saliva is also very foamy. This has been happening on and off the last month but it's gotten worse and continuous the last two/three days. Any ideas?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Various causes need to be ruled out...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

A metallic taste may occur by itself or with other symptoms, which may vary depending on the underlying disease, disorder or condition. Symptoms/conditions that may accompany a metallic taste include:

1. Acid reflux
2. Gingival problems such as bleeding gums, inflammation, ulcers, etc...
3. Facial nerve dysfunction
4. Dryness of the mouth due to reduced intake of water
5. Sinusitis or Flu with reduced sense of smell due to stuffy nose
6. Swollen or inflamed tonsils with food trapped in the crypts of the tonsils
7. Some medications such as metronidazole
8. Following dental work
9. Some toothpastes or mouth washes

Let me know if you have any other symptoms.

We need to identify the exact cause and treat it accordingly. A thorough examination of the throat and nose by the doctor can help in making the diagnosis followed by appropriate treatment.

Hope I have answered your query; I will be available for the follow-up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

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. Vaishalee Punj