As the festive season gets underway in full swing there is an abundance of sweets around you. Almost every one of us develops a sweet tooth during the season. However, many people can’t seem to get rid of the constant sweet taste in mouth. Could it be the result of a thyroid problem? Or is the cause something else? If you are among the portion of the population who experiences frequent or permanent sweet taste in mouth and wish to know the causes and the preventive measures, then you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we shall take a look at some of the major causes of sweet taste in mouth from thyroid and other disorders, as well as learn the ways to treat them and prevent them.
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Sweet taste in mouth thyroid
Thyroid hormone imbalance can create a lot of impairment in the mouth. These include the emergence of hormonal diseases and disorders, toxic influences from external sources, and inherited deficiencies in the production of hormones in the body.
Why do I feel a permanent sweet taste in mouth?
The taste buds on our tongue can detect five different types of flavors – sweetness, bitterness, saltiness, sourness, and ‘umami’ which is a sort of balanced flavor. So, when you eat sweets the taste buds immediately let you know you are eating something sweet. The taste buds normally retain any flavor for a while, if not washed or brushed away from the tongue. However, it is uncommon to feel a lasting sweet taste in your mouth as this could be an indication of a thyroid problem or worse.
Although research is still underway to determine the specific cause or causes for this phenomenon, it is certain that there are several known causes and conditions that may result in a permanent sweet taste in mouth.
Some of the major reasons behind a constant sweet taste in mouth are:
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Thyroid problems –
A sweet taste in mouth might be caused by thyroid problems. The thyroid gland is responsible for controlling the metabolism by transforming the extra protein into blood sugar. This lets the body switch to burning fat as a source of energy. Hence, an insufficient blood sugar level may cause a sweet taste in mouth.
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Pregnancy –
A woman’s body undergoes severe changes as far as metabolism and hormones are concerned. Many women complain of a constant sweet or metallic taste developing in their mouths, especially during the first few months of the pregnancy.
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Neurological disorders –
Several neurological problems, such as strokes and seizures have been linked as the cause of the sweet taste in mouth, when the sensory system gets disrupted.
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Diabetes –
Diabetes is a common cause of developing a permanent sweet taste in mouth. As the insulin level in the blood sugar gets out of control, it can result in a distinct sweet taste in mouth, along with other symptoms, such as blurred vision, excessive thirst, frequent urination, and constant fatigue.
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Infections –
Several bacterial and viral infections, especially those that attack the olfactory (sense of smell) and the sensory system can result in causing a permanent sweet taste in mouth.
Hypothyroidism vs Hyperthyroidism
Hypothyroidism:
Hypothyroidism is a common disease in which the thyroid gland fails to produce enough hormones. The symptoms include weight gain and fatigue. Sufferers tend to develop wrinkled skin and have higher cholesterol levels than normal, as well as joint aches.
Hyperthyroidism:
Hyperthyroidism is a condition caused by an overproduction of thyroid hormone. It comes with a range of unpleasant symptoms including weight loss, highly accelerated metabolism, and irregular heartbeats.
Some Common Questions & Answers about thyroid problems:-
Can thyroid cause sweet taste in mouth?
Too little thyroid hormone can cause your sense of smell to be decreased, which will impair your experience of food. Do you notice that your sense of smell is duller than normal?
Can thyroid problems cause a bitter taste?
When one’s thyroid isn’t functioning at optimal levels, symptoms such as hypogeusia and bitter taste, and the release of inhibitions, can arise – oral pain and burning sensations can also affect certain people who have hypothyroidism.
Can thyroid problems cause metallic taste in mouth?
Some thyroid patients, particularly middle-aged women or those who are in menopause may develop Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS). Considered one of the symptoms that accompany hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, BMS is most often characterized by a burning sensation on or around the tongue or lips that could last for days. Abdominal pain, dry mouth, and hoarse voice may also accompany this condition, as well as various pharyngeal complaints including sore throat. It may be accompanied by a bitter or metallic taste.
How can I treat the sweet taste in mouth caused by thyroid or other problems?
Experiencing a sweet taste in your mouth infrequently is not a cause for concern. However, it is highly advisable to consult your local physician when you start sensing a sweet taste in mouth frequently or constantly. The physician will be able to identify the likely cause and refer you to the relevant specialist.
The physician may refer you to an ENT, neurology, or gastro specialist who will perform several diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the permanent sweet taste in mouth. The diagnostic tests may include:
- Medical history
- Physical examination
- Blood sugar levels
- Viral/bacterial infection tests
- Endoscopy to check the digestive system
- MRI or CT scans to check for signs of cancer
- Imaging tests to check neurological activities in the brain
Depending on the specific cause, the specialist will then form a treatment plan and provide you with every detail you need.
Can I prevent the sweet taste in mouth caused by thyroid or other problems?
Yes, you can definitely prevent the development of a sweet taste in mouth from the thyroid or any other causes once the initial cause is treated. You will need to reduce sugar intake, workout or exercise regularly, and follow a leafy, green vegetable diet.
