Amelia Grant

We've all had the sensation of tasting blood in our mouths. That distinct metallic taste has most likely filled your mouth, whether you've bitten your cheek or tongue, cut the inside of your mouth with your braces, or flossed your teeth too aggressively. But have you ever had the unsettling sensation of tasting iron in your mouth when you hadn't inadvertently injured yourself? Here are some possible causes of a bloody or metallic taste in your mouth, as well as whether or not you should be concerned.

1. Exercise 

This is thought to be related to the breakdown of red blood cells, which releases trace amounts of iron in the lungs. If a person is exercising and expending a lot of energy, irritated areas in the mouth, nose, or throat may cause a metallic taste in the mouth. This is most common in areas where the weather is dry and cool. If there is visible blood or if the taste persists, consult your doctor.

2. COVID-19

When the pandemic first began, one of the first widely reported symptoms of COVID-19 was a loss of taste. However, the disease may cause more than just a loss of taste. It has been reported that some people infected with COVID-19 experience a metallic taste in their mouths. The exact reason why some people experienced that symptom is still unknown.

When you taste blood in your mouth, it's not always due to a virus like COVID-19; bacterial infections can also be to blame. Fortunately, this will also be resolved when the infection is properly treated.

3. Supplements and Medications

Have you recently begun taking a new medication? Or have you added new supplements or vitamins to your regimen? If you're tasting blood, it's possible that one of those medications is causing the bloody flavor on your tongue and lips.

Antibiotics, antidepressants, and blood pressure and diabetes medications are examples of medications that may cause a blood taste. Multivitamins, particularly those containing heavy metals or iron, may cause a blood taste.

4. Allergies 

Allergies are a common cause of taste changes, particularly a metallic aftertaste in the mouth. Aside from increased secretions in the respiratory passages, allergy medications (such as antihistamines) may cause a metallic taste and a dry sensation in the mouth.

5. Pine Nut Syndrome 

This one is extremely specific. It is not common, but it does occur in some people who consume pine nuts. There have been previous reports of people experiencing a metallic taste in their mouths for several days after eating pine nuts. The altered taste in the mouth appears to be temporary, and it is unclear why this phenomenon may occur in a small number of people.

A person suffering from pine nut syndrome will typically experience a bitter metallic taste 12 to 48 hours after eating pine nuts. This flavor is usually enhanced when combined with other foods and lasts two to four weeks.

6. Pregnancy 

Pregnancy is one of the most common causes of a metallic taste in the mouth, and it is most likely caused by the hormonal fluctuations that occur during this time. While some pregnancy-related changes are permanent, this one usually resolves itself.

7. Poor Oral Hygiene 

Brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day with a toothbrush with soft bristles is essential. Sure, you might slack off now and then. However, maintaining good oral hygiene is critical, as neglecting it can result in bad breath, cavities, and even the taste of blood in your mouth.

If a person does not brush their teeth on a regular basis, they may develop gingivitis or periodontitis, which are inflammation or shrinkage of the gum tissue. A metallic taste in the mouth may occur as a result of the altered anatomy of the oral tissue in these conditions. If you have a persistent metallic taste along with bleeding gums, visit a dental clinic. 

8. Neurological Conditions 

A metallic taste could be associated with neurological conditions such as Bell's palsy and dementia. A metallic taste associated with neurological illness is a result of weak signals from the underlying brain malfunction.