A sour taste in the mouth is an unpleasant symptom that everyone has encountered at least once in their life. It can occur suddenly or bother for a long time, causing discomfort and forcing you to look for the reasons for its appearance? writes IZ. In this article, we will consider the main factors that provoke a sour taste, possible health consequences and effective treatment methods.
Content
- Causes of a sour taste in the mouth
- Consequences of a sour taste in the mouth
- Methods of treating a sour taste in the mouth
- Prevention of sour taste
- How to determine the cause of a sour taste in the mouth?
Causes of a sour taste in the mouth
1. Reflux disease (GERD)
- The most common cause of a sour taste in the mouth is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing heartburn and a sour taste in the mouth.
- Symptoms: heartburn, chest pain, frequent belching, nausea.
2. Improper nutrition
- Consuming large amounts of fatty, spicy, or acidic foods stimulates increased secretion of gastric juice, which can lead to reflux and a sour taste.
- Particularly risky foods: citrus fruits, coffee, carbonated drinks, chocolate, alcohol.
3. Problems with teeth and gums
- Tooth decay, gingivitis, or periodontitis can also cause a sour taste in your mouth. Bacteria in your mouth produce acids that cause discomfort.
- Symptoms: bleeding gums, bad breath, pain when chewing.
4. Liver and gallbladder dysfunction
- Bile stasis or biliary dyskinesia can cause a bitter-sour taste in the mouth, especially in the morning.
- Symptoms: pain in the right hypochondrium, nausea, yellowing of the skin.
5. Hormonal changes and pregnancy
- During pregnancy, elevated progesterone levels relax muscles, including the esophageal sphincter, which contributes to reflux and a sour taste.
- Associated symptoms: heartburn, nausea, bloating.
6. Medications and their side effects
- Taking antibiotics, antihistamines, and some other medications can change the acidity in the stomach or cause dysbiosis, causing a sour taste.
- Tip: Be sure to consult your doctor about the side effects of medications.
7. Stress and nervous disorders
- Increased anxiety and stress can affect the secretion of gastric juice and provoke reflux.
- Additional symptoms: dry mouth, decreased appetite, nausea.
Consequences of a sour taste in the mouth
If a sour taste occurs regularly and is not treated, it can lead to the following complications:
- Tooth enamel erosion. Increased acidity negatively affects enamel, making teeth sensitive and prone to cavities.
- Inflammatory processes. Constant irritation of the esophageal mucosa can cause esophagitis or even ulcers.
- Digestive disorders: Chronic reflux can lead to gastritis or duodenitis.
Methods of treating a sour taste in the mouth
1. Nutrition correction
- Avoid spicy, fatty, and acidic foods. Include more vegetables, grains, and lean meats.
- Recommendation: eat small portions 4-5 times a day.
2. Treatment of the underlying disease
- See a gastroenterologist for diagnosis and treatment of GERD or other gastrointestinal diseases.
3. Mouthwash and hygiene
- Use a baking soda rinse (1 tsp per glass of water) to neutralize acids in your mouth.
- Brush your teeth twice a day and use dental floss.
4. Medicines and preparations
- Antacids: neutralize acid in the stomach (e.g. Almagel).
- Proton pump inhibitors: Omeprazole or Pantoprazole to reduce acid secretion.
- Preparations for normalizing microflora: probiotics and prebiotics.
5. Folk methods
- Ginger tea: helps normalize stomach function.
- Chamomile decoction: has a calming and anti-inflammatory effect.
Prevention of sour taste
- Diet: Avoid overeating and eating before bed.
- Drinking regimen. Consume at least 1.5-2 liters of water per day.
- Physical activity: Regular walks and light exercise improve digestion.
- Stress management: Meditation and breathing exercises can help reduce anxiety levels.
How to determine the cause of a sour taste in the mouth?
To understand what exactly provokes a sour taste in the mouth, it is important to pay attention to the accompanying symptoms and circumstances of its occurrence. If discomfort appears after consuming certain foods or drinks, the cause is probably in the diet. If the sour taste is accompanied by heartburn, chest pain or belching, you should consult a gastroenterologist for a detailed diagnosis.
Recommended actions:
- Keep a food diary. Write down exactly what you ate before the symptom appeared.
- Observe the time of onset. In the morning or after meals – this may indicate specific problems with the gastrointestinal tract.
- Consult a doctor. Laboratory tests and endoscopy will help establish an accurate diagnosis.
Accurately determining the cause will allow you to choose effective treatment and get rid of the sour taste in your mouth once and for all.
We remind you that we previously wrote about the taste of acetone in the mouth: what it means and when you should see a doctor