Bad Taste (dysgeusia)
Some chemotherapy drugs cause a metallic or unpleasant taste in the mouth that can last right through the three-week cycle of treatment. It may be associated with certain foods, water may taste or smell “chemical”, and coffee may taste revolting. The complaints may exacerbate nausea and loss of appetite.
Unfortunately there is no magic remedy. Some claim that chewing ginger, eating liquorice or aniseed flavoured treats or chewing gum helps. Good mouth care is essential, including the regular use of sodium bicarbonate mouth washes (see “Mouth Soreness and Ulceration”) and regular use of the toothbrush. Although some dentists recommend against it, gentle brushing of the tongue may also help.
Unfortunately there is no magic remedy. Some claim that chewing ginger, eating liquorice or aniseed flavoured treats or chewing gum helps. Good mouth care is essential, including the regular use of sodium bicarbonate mouth washes (see “Mouth Soreness and Ulceration”) and regular use of the toothbrush. Although some dentists recommend against it, gentle brushing of the tongue may also help.