The sudden bad taste or the sensation that everything tastes bad can be caused by a range of factors. Common causes include:
- Upper respiratory infections such as colds, flu, or sinus infections, which inflame nasal passages and impair smell, thus impacting taste.
- COVID-19, which is known to cause sudden and sometimes prolonged loss or alteration of taste and smell.
- Oral health issues, including poor dental hygiene, infections, dry mouth, or oral thrush.
- Medications or supplements that can induce metallic or unpleasant tastes.
- Nutrient deficiencies, nerve damage, or medical conditions affecting the nervous system or mouth.
- Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, menopause).
- Gastrointestinal issues like acid reflux or bile reflux.
Sometimes, post-viral conditions such as long COVID can lead to prolonged distorted or bad taste sensations. It is advisable to check for recent infections, review medications, assess oral health, and consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and targeted treatment if this symptom persists or worsens.
