Taste Disorders: When to Seek ENT Help

Q: Taste Disorders: When to Seek ENT Help

Dear Ryan： If the medication is not effective, primarily due to neurological issues, I recommend consulting a neurologist for evaluation. <br>Wishing you safety and health. <br>Sincerely, Dr. <br>Cheng Jue-Yi, Attending Physician, Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hos

Taste abnormalities

Dear Dr.
Cheng,
Hello, I am a referral patient (surname Lu) who visited the clinic on Saturday (the 30th).
After taking the medication you prescribed for a day, I noticed that my sense of taste has become even more diminished, and I hardly feel anything in my mouth! Should I return for a follow-up appointment immediately, or should I wait until I finish the medication before scheduling another visit?
Additionally, I researched some factors that can cause taste abnormalities and found that "autonomic nervous system dysfunction" can lead to dry mouth and taste disturbances.
I also have other symptoms associated with this condition, such as tightness and soreness in my neck and shoulders.
Given this situation, should I continue to consult with the otolaryngology department, or should I seek an appointment with another specialty? Thank you!

Ryan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/07/31

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Dear Ryan: If the medication is not effective, primarily due to neurological issues, I recommend consulting a neurologist for evaluation.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Attending Physician, Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2011/07/31

More Info

When it comes to taste disorders, particularly in the context of your experience with diminished taste sensation after starting a new medication, it is essential to approach the situation with careful consideration. Taste disorders can arise from various factors, including medications, neurological issues, and systemic conditions. Given your symptoms, it is crucial to determine the underlying cause to address the issue effectively.

Firstly, it is not uncommon for certain medications to alter taste perception. Some medications can lead to dry mouth (xerostomia), which can significantly affect taste. If you have noticed a decrease in taste sensitivity after starting the prescribed medication, it is advisable to consult your prescribing physician or the ENT specialist who initially evaluated you. They can assess whether the medication is the likely culprit and if an adjustment or alternative treatment is necessary.

In your case, you mentioned experiencing symptoms associated with autonomic nervous system dysregulation, such as neck and shoulder tension and pain. These symptoms can indeed contribute to a sensation of altered taste or even a complete loss of taste (ageusia). The autonomic nervous system plays a role in regulating various bodily functions, including salivation, which is essential for taste perception. If your symptoms of autonomic dysregulation are significant and impacting your quality of life, it may be beneficial to seek further evaluation from a healthcare professional who specializes in this area, such as a neurologist or a specialist in integrative medicine.

In terms of whether you should return to the ENT or wait until you finish the medication, it is generally advisable to err on the side of caution. If your taste sensation continues to decline or if you experience additional concerning symptoms, it would be prudent to schedule a follow-up appointment sooner rather than later. This will allow your healthcare provider to monitor your condition closely and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Additionally, if you are experiencing significant discomfort or distress due to your symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out for help. Communication with your healthcare provider is key. They can provide guidance on managing your symptoms, whether through medication adjustments, lifestyle changes, or referrals to other specialists.

In summary, given your experience with diminished taste sensation and associated symptoms, it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers. If your symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation. Understanding the interplay between your medication, autonomic nervous system function, and taste perception will be crucial in addressing your concerns effectively. Remember, your health and well-being should always be the priority, and seeking help is a proactive step toward finding relief and understanding your condition better.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Taste Disorders: When to See an ENT Specialist

Dr. Hsu, my mother (73 years old) has recently been experiencing a poor sense of taste, often feeling a bitter taste when consuming liquids, along with dry mouth and tongue. She consulted a neurologist, who only mentioned that her cholesterol levels are high and advised her to ex...

Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, changes in taste perception may warrant consideration of certain central nervous system disorders, such as stroke or neuroma, although the likelihood is low. It is still important to exercise caution, so please discuss this with a neurologist.

Understanding Taste and Smell Issues: When to Seek Medical Help

Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been able to taste food while eating, but normally the flavor should linger in my mouth. However, for the past few days, I haven't been able to feel it. I would like to know what could be the problem and if I need to see a doctor.

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
If you experience persistent abnormalities in your sense of smell or taste that do not improve, you should consult an otolaryngologist or a neurologist for evaluation.

Understanding Taste Disorders: Causes and Solutions for Altered Taste Sensation

Doctor, may I ask why the taste of my food has become very bland or even tasteless, similar to when I have a cold? I find that I need to eat very strongly flavored foods to perceive any taste. This symptom has been present for about 3 to 4 months. I smoke, but I don't exceed...

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology
Taste and smell issues are indeed related, but your sinusitis problem may require a visit to an otolaryngology clinic. An endoscopy and physical examination are necessary to determine whether your sense of smell is related to the sinusitis. Thank you.

Understanding Taste Disorders: When to See an ENT Specialist

You have been experiencing a salty taste in the middle and back of your tongue for about a month, without fever, but with a thick coating on your tongue. There are often stones near the sides of your throat, and the taste is unpleasant. You do not feel thirsty, and your blood pre...

Dr. Ye Dawei reply Otolaryngology
Dear Sir/Madam: For blood pressure issues, please consult the internal medicine department. For stones on both sides of the throat, please see the otolaryngology department. A general outpatient examination will suffice. Dr. Yeh Da-Wei, Head of the Otolaryngology Department, Hsin...