What causes a bitter taste in the mouth and what should I do?

Nov 10, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
In general, a bitter taste in the mouth may be caused by factors such as mental stress, poor lifestyle habits, inadequate oral hygiene, gastroesophageal reflux, or cholecystitis, and management should be tailored according to the specific situation. If a bitter taste in the mouth persists or occurs frequently, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to determine the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment.

In general, a bitter taste in the mouth may be caused by factors such as mental stress, poor lifestyle habits, inadequate oral hygiene, gastroesophageal reflux, or cholecystitis, and management should be tailored according to the specific cause.

1. Mental stress: Emotional changes can affect nervous system regulation; psychological issues such as anxiety and depression may alter taste sensation, leading to a bitter taste in the mouth. It is recommended to learn emotional self-regulation and relieve mental stress through activities like exercise and listening to music, thus maintaining a positive mood.

2. Poor lifestyle habits: Chronic sleep deprivation and irregular sleep patterns can disrupt normal metabolism, resulting in a bitter taste in the mouth. It is advised to maintain a regular sleep schedule, avoid staying up late, drink sufficient water daily, and keep the mouth moist to help alleviate bitterness.

3. Poor oral hygiene: Food debris left in the mouth can promote bacterial growth, potentially causing a bitter taste. It is recommended to develop good oral hygiene practices, including brushing teeth twice daily, rinsing after meals, and using dental floss to clean between teeth.

4. Gastroesophageal reflux: Dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter allows stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus and sometimes even into the mouth, causing a bitter taste. Avoid eating before bedtime, and under medical guidance, use medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules or lansoprazole enteric-coated tablets to suppress gastric acid secretion and relieve symptoms.

5. Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder can impair normal bile excretion, leading to bile stasis and bile reflux into the bloodstream. The bile is then transported via circulation to the mouth, causing a bitter taste. Patients with cholecystitis should, under medical supervision, take medications such as cefuroxime axetil granules or metronidazole tablets for treatment.

If a bitter taste in the mouth persists or occurs frequently, it is advisable to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate targeted treatment.

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