Iodine taste in the mouth in women and men

It is difficult not to pay attention when there is a taste of iodine in the mouth. It is even more difficult to find the cause of such a phenomenon, which is not always possible to do independently. In some cases, it is still necessary to turn to doctors. It is important not to ignore the problem, but to understand it, because sometimes an unpleasant taste indicates the presence of serious health problems.

Epidemiology

Specialists distinguish between different types of taste disorders:

• diminished and lost sense of taste;
• enhancing the sense of taste;
• perversion of taste sensitivity.

Most often doctors have to diagnose perverted taste perception, when flavors are perceived incorrectly or are perceived when they are not. This is characteristic, for example, of hormonal changes (particularly in pregnant women) or mental illness.

Among the causative factors for the appearance of iodine taste in the oral cavity, the leading ones are:

• changes in the receptor apparatus due to exposure to chemical stimuli, certain medications, or foods;
• infectious, endocrine, allergic processes in the body, disorders of vitamin-mineral and water-electrolyte metabolism, diseases of the digestive system;
• A disorder of innervation and conduction of impulse from taste buds to certain analyzers, which is observed in corresponding lesions of the nervous system.

In addition, taste sensations can change significantly (aggravated or decreased) in elderly people, in patients with certain mental pathologies (depression, schizophrenia, etc.). Dental diseases and dentures can also cause temporary changes in taste.

Often the taste of iodine in the mouth acts as an erroneous perception of the actual taste stimulus. Such "substitution" is characteristic of psychopathology, damage to the cerebral cortex, or diseases of the conductive pathways of taste sensitivity.

There are no general statistics on such disorders. It is only known that the problem is more common in middle and old age (the approximate age range of the diseased is 25-55 years), in women - slightly more often than in men.

Causes of the iodine taste in the mouth

The causes of iodine taste in the mouth can be both harmless (passing on their own) and quite serious, indicating the presence of certain diseases. The most common causes can be considered as follows:

• Some diagnostic examinations - in particular, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, radiological and ultrasound examinations, during which additional contrast is used - that is, a special visual contrasting substance is injected into the patient. Such substances are often iodine-containing solutions that do not pose any danger to health, improve visualization during diagnosis, and then leave the body with urine in unchanged form. After the study, some patients still have a specific iodine taste in the oral cavity: in this situation, nothing needs to be done, as this aftertaste disappears on its own within 2-3 days.
• Excess iodine in the body. Of course, iodine is a very important chemical element for the body. Without it, the endocrine system will not be able to work normally, metabolic processes will be disrupted. Iodine deficiency is fraught with the development of various disorders and diseases: from deterioration of hair, skin and nails to depression, neurosis and fertility disorders. However, an excessive amount of this element is also dangerous, as it disrupts the course of metabolic processes, negatively affects vision, violates taste perception. Exceeding the adequate level of iodine in the body is confirmed by laboratory tests: if this happens, the intake of any iodine-containing preparations is stopped and a diet with restriction of consumption of certain products is prescribed. [1]
• Iodism. This is a pathology that develops with iodine intoxication, or individual iodine intolerance. In addition to an unpleasant aftertaste, patients have an odor of iodine from the oral cavity, salivation increases, temperature rises. A strong hypersensitivity reaction can be complicated by anaphylactic shock. [2]
• Increased thyroid function - hyperthyroidism. Against the background of increased production of hormones, patients have an iodine taste in the mouth in the morning, disturbed sleep, irritability, dysmenorrhea, attack-like palpitations, arrhythmia. [3]
• Liver and digestive system abnormalities, poor oral hygiene, dental disease, tooth extraction and destruction.

Iodine taste in mouth after tooth extraction

Tooth extraction is accompanied by many unpleasant moments. These include pain, bleeding, and the appearance of bad breath. The postoperative period is also characterized by a bloody aftertaste, which persists for several days.

In some patients, the taste of blood in the mouth is complemented by an iodine taste. This may be due to the presence of dental deposits that have built up as a result of gentle brushing in the cavity area. Another cause is often the presence of caries that is exposed on the contact surfaces near the extracted tooth.

However, the most common cause of iodine taste is the treatment of the well after extraction (extirpation). Usually after extraction, the patient is asked to bite down on a gauze swab and hold it in place for 20 minutes. This is necessary for the formation of a blood clot, which should protect the well from infection. If after removing the tampon, the doctor finds no signs of bleeding, it means that the clot has formed, and the patient can go home. However, in some cases, the doctor has to additionally insert a turunda with iodoform and antiseptic into the hole. Such a turunda is removed only after a few days, when granulation forms on the well walls. During this time, the patient will feel a persistent iodine taste in the oral cavity, which is considered absolutely normal.

In general, the taste of iodine in the mouth in this situation is not dangerous. In the absence of severe pain, fever, increasing weakness, deterioration of chewing function, there is no cause for concern.

Risk factors

The taste of iodine in the mouth may be present for some time after the use of some medicines and multivitamin preparations, seafood (in particular, kelp, shrimp, mussels). However, if the unpleasant sensation bothers regularly and is not associated with the peculiarities of the diet and taking medications, then there is a reason to consult a specialist - in particular, an endocrinologist, gastroenterologist, dentist.

The risk factors in this case are:

• Thyroid diseases (thyrotoxicosis, hyperthyroidism).
• Pathologies of the liver, biliary system (hepatitis, cirrhosis, cholecystitis, dyskinesia, gallstone disease).
• Frequent constipation, dysbacteriosis, digestive disorders, "lazy" bowel syndrome.
• Pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract (gastric and 12-intestinal ulcers, gastritis, reflux esophagitis, pancreatitis).
• Salivary deficiency, dehydration, cachexia.
• Dental problems (dental caries, periodontal disease, mucosal tissue pathologies).
• ENT pathologies, tonsillitis, laryngitis, adenoiditis, pharyngitis, etc.
• Mental abnormalities.

It is important to note that regular emissions of toxic substances from industrial enterprises can cause chronic intoxication, metabolic disorders, hormonal changes and even disorders in the central nervous system. Unfavorable environmental conditions can provoke improper functioning of the papillary receptors, which entails impaired taste perception, unreasonable appearance of extraneous aftertastes.

Pathogenesis

The taste of iodine in the mouth, which appears "out of nowhere", is one of the variants of disorders of taste sensitivity - we are talking about the so-called "parageusia".

Taste is sensed by receptors located on the tongue and in the nasal cavity. When taste changes in the oral cavity, information about it is transmitted to the brain: this is where taste identification takes place (sweet/bitter/salty/iodine, etc.). In general, the system of collecting, transmitting and processing information is quite complex.

The most common causes of iodine flavor formation are overconsumption of seafood and iodine preparations, and improper thyroid function.

The intrusive aftertaste can bother at different times of the day, but in most cases it can be gotten rid of by brushing your teeth and rinsing your mouth.

The taste of iodine is often found in adherents of the Mediterranean diet. The menu of such a diet involves the consumption of a large amount of fish and seafood, at least 4-6 times a week. Fish replaces the usual meat dishes, and the addition of seaweed, shrimp, squid, etc. Is welcome in the diet. [4]

In addition to nutrition, unpleasant aftertaste can be a consequence of psycho-emotional shocks, in which the level of adrenaline and corticosteroid hormones increases. Taste discomfort can be complemented by dryness of mucous tissues, thirst, feelings of anxiety and fear, tremor and twitching of muscles.

Atypical taste sensations are also characteristic of hormonal changes: they are often intensified under the influence of taking multivitamin complex preparations and other supplements that are prescribed by doctors, for example, during pregnancy.

After craniocerebral traumas, brain injuries, or as a result of intoxication, the nuclei of the cranial nerves responsible for the formation of taste perception are affected. In this case, people lose the ability to identify tastes and often feel a variety of gratuitous extraneous aftertastes. Such disorders may be accompanied by salivary and/or swallowing disorders.

Symptoms of the iodine taste in the mouth

In addition to the present sign of iodine taste in the oral cavity, the following symptoms may bother the patient:

• burning sensation behind the sternum, unpleasant belching, changes in the acidity of gastric juice;
• bouts of nausea and vomiting;
• stool disorders, alternating between constipation and diarrhea;
• Coughing - ranging from a slight cough to severe coughing fits;
• muscle twitching, muscle weakness;
• severe fatigue, increased fatigue;
• abdominal pain;
• elevated body temperature;
• additional unpleasant aftertaste;
• head pain, dizziness;
• decreased performance;
• Sleep disturbances ranging from drowsiness to insomnia;
• appetite disturbances;
• change in body weight.

Depending on the root cause of the unpleasant iodine taste, the clinical symptomatology may expand due to other specific manifestations.

In neurological disorders, patients may experience cognitive impairment, loss of spatial orientation, impaired memory, and impaired coordination.

Regular and unpleasant taste of iodine in the mouth can strongly affect appetite and mood, and the taste perception of food. The sensation is intensified with insufficient fluid intake during the day. However, if the uncomfortable aftertaste occurs systematically, regardless of the nature of the diet, as well as accompanied by other pathological signs, it is necessary to visit a doctor for consultation and clarification of the probable causes of the problem.

Depending on the underlying causes, different shades of the same iodine flavor are possible:

• iodine-metallic flavor;
• iodine bitter;
• iodic acid;
• iodine bitter flavor.

The most unfavorable cause of iodine taste in the oral cavity is considered iodism, which develops due to excessive use of iodine-containing drugs or chemical intoxication. An allergic reaction to iodine can manifest itself with skin rashes and swelling. Iodine compounds begin to be excreted from the body with salivary fluid, with sputum, nasal mucous secretions, which is accompanied by a burning and burning sensation in the throat and nose, persistent characteristic breath odor. Some patients develop inflammatory reactions. Iodism is usually accompanied by such pathological signs:

• increased salivation, thirst;
• a persistent specific iodine odor in the exhaled air;
• tear production;
• elevated body temperature;
• rashes, including acne;
• convulsive muscle twitches, digestive disorders, dyspepsia.

In severe cases of iodism, the development of anaphylactic shock with severe laryngeal edema and suffocation is noted.

In hyperthyroidism, the taste of iodine in the mouth appears mainly in the morning hours, but it can also be bothersome during the day. Additional signs indicating the need for medical consultation may be:

• palpitations, arrhythmias;
• swelling in the front of the neck and face;
• hyperhidrosis;
• dysmenorrhea and decreased libido;
• irritability, fidgeting;
• trembling in my fingers and hands;
• insomnia.

Patients often suffer from itching, heat intolerance, and muscle weakness. There may be frequent exacerbation of angina pectoris. Cardiovascular clinical picture is explained by the direct influence of thyroid hormones, as well as the increase in basal metabolism and oxygen consumption.

If the unpleasant taste in the mouth is due to hormonal transformations, or long-term intake of hormonal drugs, then the diagnosis is made after a blood test for hormones. Additional pathological signs may be:

• mood instability;
• irritability, sleep disturbances;
• general weakness, brokenness, "fogginess" of consciousness;
• decreased performance;
• skin rashes.

Iodine taste in the mouth in women

Taste disturbances are often found in pregnant women, which is due to physiological reasons: in this period there are strong hormonal changes in the female body. The appearance of foreign aftertaste is mainly noted in the first trimester, then gradually weakening, and after childbirth and disappears altogether.

Consumption of iodine-containing foods, frequent stay near the sea causes the appearance of iodine taste. Hormonal preparations, including oral contraceptives, can also lead to the problem.

In some particularly sensitive women, a pronounced taste of iodine in the mouth appears after some diagnostic procedures - in particular, after colposcopy, during which the doctor treats the skin with iodine-containing solution to prevent infection. The chemical element may be absorbed into the bloodstream in a certain amount, which will cause a peculiar taste sensation. This aftertaste usually goes away on its own within a day: the next day the condition should normalize.

Iodine taste in the mouth during pregnancy

Changes and even perversions of taste sensations during pregnancy - this is a very common and even normal phenomenon due to strong hormonal transformations in the female body, increased susceptibility of taste buds.

Almost immediately after successful conception, a woman's hormonal state begins to intensively restructure, which is necessary for the maintenance and further development of pregnancy. The expectant mother begins to feel unusual or heightened smells and tastes. This phenomenon is not dangerous, but only serves as an additional sign of the birth of a new life. Such sensations disappear by the third trimester, and certainly disappear after the arrival of the baby.

In some cases, the appearance of iodine taste in the mouth is associated with the intake of multivitamin and mineral complexes, which are usually prescribed for the normal development of the future child and adequate functioning of all systems of the female body. Most of these prenatal complex preparations contain iodine in their composition. If a woman notes the appearance of an unpleasant taste, she should consult her doctor about the advisability of continuing to take such preparations: it may be necessary to replace them with other preparations without iodine.

Iodine taste in the mouth in men

Men somewhat more often than women, drink strong alcoholic beverages, smoke, do hard physical labor, work at harmful industries (chemical, metalworking, etc.). All this negatively affects the function of the central nervous system and glands of internal secretion. Unpleasant taste of iodine in the mouth often serves as a signal of quite serious disorders in the thyroid gland, liver, digestive organs.

Industrial intoxication due to prolonged contact of the body with iodine compounds and their vapors also contributes. Victims have severe pain and burning in the throat, stomach upset, general weakness, dizziness, mucous membranes become dry and sometimes dark. Poisoning can be expressed in different degrees, which depends on the amount of iodine ingested into the body.

In case of accidental ingestion of iodine tincture in the digestive tract, in addition to the taste of iodine in the mouth, there are general signs of intoxication, burns of mucous membranes, impaired kidney and liver function.

In some cases, it is not possible to identify the root cause of iodine taste at a glance, and then you can not do without the help of a specialist: it is necessary to carry out thorough diagnostic measures. Depending on the detected cause, the subsequent treatment will be prescribed.

Complications and consequences

Many of you have probably heard about the so-called iodine prophylaxis, the main purpose of which is to ensure the intake of the necessary chemical element in the body. However, iodine deficiency can easily transform into iodine excess if taken uncontrollably with supplements and special medicines, because iodine is very toxic and can be harmful to health if taken in excess.

Iodine overdose develops due to a variety of factors:

• with prolonged inhalation of iodine fumes;
• from accidental ingestion of iodine tincture;
• when the dose of iodine-containing products is significantly exceeded;
• with improper use of external iodine preparations.

Distinguish between these types of overdose:

• chronic poisoning;
• acute oral intoxication;
• acute vapor intoxication.

Chronic poisoning does not develop immediately, but gradually: for example, with prolonged intake of iodine preparations, or with incorrectly dosed treatment regimen. Signs of intoxication are nonspecific and vague, so the condition may be misdiagnosed:

• immune defense is reduced, the patient is often ill with infectious and inflammatory pathologies;
• there's a rash on the skin, acne;
• dermatitis (iododermatitis);
• vision is affected (conjunctivitis, blepharitis, etc.).

Acute iodine poisoning is characterized by such signs:

• a rise in temperature;
• head pain, dizziness;
• mental lethargy;
• darkening of the mucous membranes;
• iodine taste and breath odor;
• hoarseness of voice;
• nausea, vomiting;
• nasal congestion, rhinitis;
• the release of tears;
• cough;
• increased salivation;
• nosebleeds;
• decreased muscle tone;
• diarrhea.

If there is a tendency to intolerance to iodine-containing agents, taking iodine preparations unnecessarily may cause the development of thyroiditis.

Diagnostics of the iodine taste in the mouth

If there is an undesirable taste of iodine in the mouth, you should contact a general practitioner (if it is a child, a pediatrician). After a thorough examination, the doctor will prescribe additional diagnostic procedures (instrumental, laboratory) and, if necessary, refer for consultation to other specialized specialists - for example, gastroenterologist, dentist, endocrinologist, otolaryngologist and others.

Laboratory and instrumental diagnostics may include such diagnostic measures:

• general clinical blood analysis (leukocytic formula, COE);
• blood glucose levels;
• serum creatinine;
• blood urea levels;
• ALT, AST, total bilirubin, glycated hemoglobin (if the patient has diabetes);
• tests for Helicobacter pylori;
• abdominal ultrasound;
• fibrogastroduodenoscopy with biopsy;
• gastroscopy;
• electrocardiogram (to rule out cardiac abnormalities);
• chest radiography, computed tomography of the chest and mediastinal organs.

Diagnostic signs of thyrotoxicosis include high thyroid hormone levels and low thyroid hormone levels. Both total and free _T4 and _T3 are elevated. Antithyroid antibodies (to iodide peroxidase and thyroglobulin) are present in 70% of cases of diffuse toxic goiter. The antibody titer is determined by indication.

Differential diagnosis

Patients with suspected thyrotoxicosis undergo differential diagnosis with conditions that have clinical similarities:

• anxiety states;
• pheochromocytoma;
• euthyroid syndrome (suppressive level of thyroid hormone against the background of severe somatic non-thyroidal pathology that does not lead to the development of thyrotoxicosis).

The state of iodism is differentiated with various types of shock states (cardiogenic, hemorrhagic, septic), with vasovagal syncope and other pathologies:

• carcinoid syndrome;
• alcohol intoxication;
• Gastrointestinal tumor processes;
• medullary thyroid cancer;
• pheochromocytoma;
• panic and hysteria;
• systemic mastocytosis.

Treatment of the iodine taste in the mouth

The first step to take when an iodine aftertaste appears in the mouth is to ensure good oral hygiene. In many cases, the foreign aftertaste is the result of bacterial growth, which is caused by improper or irregular cleaning of the teeth. Teeth should not only be cleaned regularly, but also systematic examination and timely treatment by a dentist.

In some cases, rinsing the mouth with a solution of baking soda or diluted lemon juice helps to get rid of the iodine taste.

If the taste appeared after a tooth extraction and has not disappeared over time, you should also see a dentist to address the problem.

After providing oral hygiene care, you should review your diet and the medications (multivitamins) and supplements you take.

Conservative treatment involves lifestyle correction (normalization of weight, stabilization of water-electrolyte balance, avoidance of alcohol and smoking). With pathologies of the endocrine, digestive system, it is important to consult a doctor as early as possible. Independently should not "prescribe" yourself one or another medication. After all, even seemingly harmless vitamin preparations can cause irreparable harm to health if used incorrectly.

At the signs of iodism, it is absolutely necessary to completely eliminate the use of drugs and supplements, as well as the use of foods that contain iodine. For several people should also be removed from the diet of salt. With pronounced manifestations of pathology, it may be necessary to wash the stomach and intestines to reduce the ingestion of iodine compounds in the body.

To accelerate the elimination of iodine from the digestive and vascular system usually use sorbents - in particular, Smecta or Polysorb. If such drugs are not available, it is allowed to use ordinary white flour or potato starch. In hospital conditions, calcium chloride and sodium thiosulfate (as antidotes) are used to neutralize iodine compounds.

If the aftertaste of iodine is caused by an increase in the function of the thyroid gland, then medications that normalize the work of the organ are used. In severe cases, surgical treatment may be required.

Drug treatment

To inhibit thyroid hormone production, thyrostatic drugs are prescribed: Thyrozole 20 to 45 mg per day, or Mercazolil 30 to 40 mg per day, or Propylthiouracil 300 to 400 mg per day. The most probable side effects of thyrostatic treatment: allergies, liver disease (about 1%), agranulocytosis (less than 1%). During therapy, repeat the general blood test every 2 weeks. The duration of the therapeutic course is 1-1.5 years. The dosage of thyrostatic can vary, depending on the indicators of free _T4. The first correction is carried out approximately one month after the start of treatment.

Conservative therapy for thyrotoxicosis also includes taking beta-blockers:

• Anapriline - 40 to 120 mg per day, for control of sipmatic hyperactivity, hyperthyroidism, anxiety disorders. Possible side effects: decrease in blood pressure, asthenia, impaired visual acuity, cough.
• Atenolol 100 mg daily, before meals. It is not prescribed in acute and chronic heart failure, metabolic acidosis. The most frequent side effects: headache, depression, increased sweating, sleep disorders, dyspepsia.
• Bisoprolol from 2.5 to 10 mg per day. Possible side effects: dizziness, bradycardia, conjunctivitis, hearing impairment.

It is important to note that self-administration of any medication can be very dangerous. Medications are prescribed only by a doctor, based on the results of diagnostic measures and individual characteristics of the patient (age, tolerance of drugs, etc.). If health problems appear, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible, so as not to miss precious time and not to aggravate the developing pathology.

Physiotherapy treatment

Physiotherapy is an auxiliary, but quite effective way to treat thyroid pathologies. For example, in hyperthyroidism, which is characterized by the appearance of iodine taste in the oral cavity, the doctor can prescribe such procedures:

• transcerebral amplipulsterapy;
• transcranial electroanalgesia;
• transcerebral ultrahigh-frequency therapy;
• DMV to the adrenal or thyroid area;
• carbon dioxide and radon baths.

In addition, the doctor may recommend:

• aerotherapy;
• thalassotherapy;
• oxygen therapy;
• electrophoresis with sodium bromide;
• electrosleep.

Any pathology requires a comprehensive approach, including such diseases that are accompanied by an iodine taste in the oral cavity.

Herbal treatment

With the appearance of iodine taste in the oral cavity, before starting treatment with herbal folk remedies, you should visit a doctor and undergo a full diagnosis. If this is not done, then instead of eliminating the problem, you can achieve the opposite effect and aggravate the pathology.

As herbal remedies, many experts recommend taking tincture of motherwort, extract of hawthorn fruit, rhizome of licorice and mirena dye, infusion of rosehip berries.

• Take 2 tbsp. Crushed rhizome of maddera dye, pour 500 ml of boiling water, cover with a lid and insist for about half an hour. Then the infusion is filtered and drink 200-300 ml per day.
• Prepare a medicinal collection of 20 g rhizome of licorice, 40 g of madder dye, 30 g rhizome of soapberry, 25 g hawthorn flowers. Take 2 tbsp. Of the resulting collection, pour 500 ml of boiling water, insist under a lid for 7-8 hours. Filter and take 200 ml between meals 2-3 times a day. Duration of treatment - up to one month.
• Prepare a medicinal collection of equal parts of comfrey rhizome, burdock rhizome, herb bird's throat, motherwort, hawthorn flowers. Take 2 tbsp. Collection, pour 500 ml of water, bring to a boil and boil for five minutes. Remove from the fire, kept under a lid for two hours. Filter and take 100 ml three times a day for 40 minutes before meals, for one month.
• Prepare an equal mixture of dried rose hips and black currants. Take 1 tbsp. Raw materials, pour 500 ml of boiling water, insist for an hour, filter and drink during the day for 3-4 times. You can take such a remedy for a long time, for several months.
• Prepare a tincture of half a tablespoon of white lupchatka and 100 ml of vodka. The medicine is insisted for 4 weeks in the dark, then filtered and take 25 drops three times a day for 40 minutes before meals, for a month.

Folk remedies can really help. However, it should not be forgotten that you should not use such treatment without a doctor's consultation.

Surgical treatment

Surgical treatment in the form of thyroidectomy may be prescribed in case of ineffectiveness of conservative treatment for 1-1.5 years, as well as in case of large goiter, presence of nodular neoplasms, intolerance to thyrostatic drugs, or in case of severe endocrine ophthalmopathy.

Prior to surgical intervention, the patient achieves a euthyroid state by taking Thyrozole. Potassium iodide is prescribed already in the preoperative period. The most commonly practiced is marginal-subtotal or total thyroidectomy.

If the need for surgical treatment occurs during pregnancy, the second trimester is chosen.

After surgery, the patient is subjected to lifelong dispensary monitoring due to the development of hypothyroidism. Laboratory evaluation of thyroid function is performed every 6-12 months.

Prevention

There are no specific preventive measures to prevent the appearance of iodine taste in the mouth. In the basis of prevention experts include the introduction of a healthy lifestyle, adequate use of iodine-containing preparations, excluding exceeding their daily dosage of 150 mcg (together with food - up to 200 mcg).

Annually visit an endocrinologist, gastroenterologist, dentist - this is a very important point of prevention. In addition, it is desirable to eliminate all bad habits, remove from the diet fried, fatty, spicy food and pickles. Nutrition should be complete and balanced, with a sufficient presence of fiber and natural vitamins in the composition of vegetable products. You should limit the use of chocolate, coffee, strong tea, spicy spices (such as chili peppers).

An active lifestyle, moderate exercise, and periodic courses of massage treatments are encouraged.

Forecast

The taste of iodine in the mouth is not a disease. It is only a symptom of some other pathological or physiological condition. Therefore, the prognosis depends on the initial cause of this phenomenon. In general, the outcome in most cases is favorable, provided that such conditions as timely seeking medical help and following all medical recommendations are met.