It can be an alarming experience when you suddenly notice a taste of blood in your mouth. Sometimes, it is just a temporary sensation without any serious cause.

However, other times, it might be an indication of an underlying health condition that needs urgent medical attention. In this article, we will review the various causes of blood taste in the mouth.

Mouth and Gum Infections

Mouth and gum infections are a common cause of a blood-like taste in the mouth. When bacteria accumulate in the mouth, they can lead to gum inflammation or even an infection.

Gum disease, also called periodontitis, is a common cause of gum infections, and it can lead to bad breath, tooth loss, and a metallic taste in the mouth.

Another common cause of a bloody taste in the mouth is an abscessed tooth. An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms around the root of a tooth, and it can cause severe pain, swelling, and an unpleasant taste in your mouth.

To treat an abscess, your dentist might need to perform a root canal or extract the infected tooth.

Nosebleeds and Sinus Infections

In some cases, a blood-like taste in the mouth can be caused by a nosebleed or a sinus infection. When you have a nosebleed, the blood can sometimes drain into your mouth and give it a metallic taste.

A sinus infection can cause post-nasal drip, which can also lead to a blood-like taste in your mouth.

Medications and Medical Treatments

Several medications and medical treatments can cause a metallic taste in the mouth that resembles blood. Some antibiotics, antihistamines, and antidepressants can cause this side effect.

Moreover, chemotherapy and radiation therapy for cancer treatment also have been known to cause a blood-like taste in your mouth.

Nutrient Deficiencies

Nutrient deficiencies can also lead to a metallic taste in the mouth that can resemble blood. A lack of vitamin B12 can cause anemia and a metallic taste in the mouth. Moreover, a lack of zinc and iron can also cause the same symptoms.

Neurological Disorders

Some neurological conditions and disorders can cause a metallic taste in the mouth. A disorder called dysgeusia, which alters the sense of taste, can cause a metallic taste in some people.

Additionally, Bell’s Palsy, a condition that affects the facial nerves, can cause a tingling sensation that can lead to a bloody taste in the mouth.

Other Causes

Other conditions that can cause blood taste in the mouth include trauma to the jaw or mouth, such as a broken tooth or a cut on the inside of your mouth.

Also, acid reflux or heartburn can cause a sour taste in the mouth that might be mistaken for blood. Finally, dehydration can cause a dry mouth that can lead to a blood-like taste in your mouth.

Bottom Line

A blood-like taste in the mouth can be a symptom of various underlying health conditions. Therefore, it is essential to see a doctor or dentist if the sensation persists. They can help diagnose and treat the underlying cause of the problem.