Parageusia

Parageusia is a medical condition characterized by an alteration in the sense of taste. It is a type of dysgeusia, which refers to any distortion or impairment in the sense of taste. Parageusia is often associated with a metallic or bitter taste in the mouth.

Causes

Parageusia can be caused by a variety of factors, including certain medications, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, certain diseases and conditions, and damage to the nerves that control taste. Some of the common causes include:

• Medications: Certain medications, such as some antibiotics, antihistamines, and blood pressure medications, can cause parageusia.
• Chemotherapy and radiation therapy: These treatments can cause a metallic or bitter taste in the mouth, which is a form of parageusia.
• Diseases and conditions: Certain diseases and conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, liver disease, and kidney disease, can cause parageusia.
• Nerve damage: Damage to the nerves that control taste, such as from a head injury or surgery, can cause parageusia.

Symptoms

The main symptom of parageusia is a persistent abnormal taste in the mouth, often described as metallic or bitter. This can affect the enjoyment of food and drink and can lead to loss of appetite and weight loss.

Diagnosis

Parageusia is diagnosed based on the patient's symptoms and medical history. The doctor may also perform a physical examination and order tests to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment for parageusia depends on the underlying cause. If the condition is caused by a medication, the doctor may change the medication or adjust the dosage. If it is caused by a disease or condition, treating that disease or condition may help to alleviate the symptoms of parageusia.

See also

• Dysgeusia
• Ageusia
• Hypogeusia
• Hypergeusia

Parageusia Resources
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