Why Does My Mouth Taste Salty? ENT Issues

My mouth feels salty?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask about a situation I experienced last Thursday.
My mouth tasted salty, and even drinking water didn't help to alleviate it.
I consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner who didn't say much, just took my pulse and prescribed some medication.
After taking the medicine for over a day, I felt no improvement, so I went to see an ENT specialist.
He said I had a cold but didn't elaborate further.
When I asked why I had a salty taste, he attributed it to the cold.
I looked up the medication he prescribed and found it was related to pharyngitis, but I don't feel like I have any cold symptoms, just the salty taste.
After taking the medication for a day and a half, I still haven't felt any better, and my urine has turned yellow.
I hope you can advise me on which specialist I should see.
Thank you.

Chun Chun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/08

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, based on your description, it is most likely "acute glossitis." I recommend increasing your intake of B vitamins while avoiding stimulants such as coffee, tea, fried foods, spicy foods, cigarettes, and alcoholic beverages.
After eating, use an alcohol-free mouthwash or rinse with clean water to maintain good oral hygiene, which can help alleviate symptoms.
Based on your description, you may want to consult an otolaryngologist to rule out any tumors, ulcers, or other diseases.
Wishing you peace and joy.
Please note that this is purely an exchange of ideas, and everything should be based on the actual consultation with a physician.
Department of Otolaryngology, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Director Chi Chao-Yun.
http://goo.gl/eaLrcF

Reply Date: 2017/01/08

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you're experiencing a persistent salty taste in your mouth, which can be quite concerning. There are several potential reasons for this sensation, and understanding them can help you determine the best course of action.

Possible Causes of a Salty Taste in the Mouth
1. Dehydration: One common reason for a salty taste is dehydration. When your body is dehydrated, your saliva can become concentrated, leading to a salty flavor. You mentioned that your urine has become yellow, which can also indicate dehydration. It's important to ensure you're drinking enough fluids throughout the day.

2. Sinus Issues: Conditions like sinusitis or nasal congestion can lead to a salty taste. When mucus drains from your sinuses into your throat, it can carry a salty flavor. This could explain why your ENT doctor mentioned that you might have a cold, as sinus issues often accompany upper respiratory infections.

3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD can cause stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, leading to a salty or sour taste in the mouth. If you have symptoms like heartburn or regurgitation, this could be a contributing factor.

4. Medications: Certain medications can alter your taste perception or cause dry mouth, which may lead to a salty taste. If you've recently started any new medications, it might be worth discussing this with your doctor.

5. Oral Health Issues: Gum disease or other oral health problems can also lead to unusual tastes in the mouth. If there are any underlying infections or issues with your teeth or gums, they could be contributing to the salty taste.

6. Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, such as zinc, can affect your taste perception. If your diet has changed recently or if you're not getting enough nutrients, this could be a factor.

Recommendations
Given your symptoms, here are some steps you can take:
1. Stay Hydrated: Make sure you're drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This can help alleviate the salty taste and improve your overall hydration status.

2. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of any other symptoms you may experience, such as nasal congestion, heartburn, or changes in appetite. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider.

3. Consult a Specialist: Since you've already seen an ENT, it might be beneficial to consult a gastroenterologist if the salty taste persists, especially if you have symptoms of GERD. They can evaluate your digestive health and recommend appropriate treatments.

4. Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. If you suspect an oral health issue, consider visiting a dentist for a thorough examination.

5. Follow Up with Your Doctor: If your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen, it's important to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend additional tests or referrals to other specialists based on your symptoms.

Conclusion
A persistent salty taste in your mouth can be caused by various factors, including dehydration, sinus issues, GERD, medications, oral health problems, or nutritional deficiencies. It's essential to stay hydrated and monitor your symptoms closely. If the salty taste continues, consider consulting a gastroenterologist or a dentist for further evaluation. Remember, your health is important, and seeking the right care can help you find relief.

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