What causes a salty taste in the mouth and coughing?

A salty taste in the mouth accompanied by coughing may be caused by insufficient water intake, excessive salt consumption, chronic pharyngitis, sinusitis, or bronchitis. Symptoms can be improved through hydration, dietary adjustments, and medication. If symptoms persist or are accompanied by sore throat or runny nose, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Insufficient water intake: Dehydration reduces saliva production, leading to dryness of the oral mucosa and abnormal taste sensations such as a salty feeling. Dryness in the throat may also trigger irritative coughing. It is advised to increase daily fluid intake to keep the mouth moist and avoid prolonged voice use that could worsen discomfort.

2. Excessive salt intake: Long-term overconsumption of salt can irritate the mucous membranes of the throat and respiratory tract, triggering inflammatory responses that result in a salty taste and cough. A bland diet is recommended—reduce intake of salt, pickled foods, and similar items—and consume more fresh fruits and vegetables to balance flavors.

3. Chronic pharyngitis: Long-term irritation causes chronic inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa, increasing secretions that may have a salty or fishy taste, stimulating the throat and causing coughing. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as Qinghou Liyan granules, Watermelon Frost lozenges, or Compound Borax mouthwash to relieve symptoms.

4. Sinusitis: Inflammation caused by bacterial or viral infection in the sinuses leads to postnasal drip of purulent secretions into the throat, producing a salty sensation and irritating the airways to cause coughing. Under medical supervision, treatments like Biyuan Tongqiao Granules, Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride nasal drops, or Cefaclor capsules may be used to alleviate symptoms.

5. Bronchitis: Infection-induced inflammation of the bronchial mucosa results in mucus production; some of this mucus may reflux into the throat, creating a salty taste along with coughing and sputum production. As directed by a physician, medications such as Jizhi Syrup, Amoxicillin-Clavulanate Potassium tablets, or Ambroxol Hydrochloride Oral Solution may help improve symptoms.

Daily care should include maintaining appropriate indoor humidity, regularly ventilating rooms, avoiding exposure to dust and smoke, eating light and easily digestible meals, drinking plenty of warm water to soothe the throat, and maintaining regular sleep patterns to strengthen immunity and reduce symptom recurrence.