Kamil Perry
There are many reasons why a cough might taste bad, ranging from a common cold, to bronchitis, pneumonia, or even chronic conditions such as bronchiectasis. In some cases, a bad-tasting cough can be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as lung or throat cancer, pulmonary embolism, or lung injury. One of the most common causes of a bad-tasting cough is a build-up of mucus, which can be caused by a cold, flu, or other respiratory infection. Intense exercise can also cause a metallic taste in the mouth due to increased pressure in the chest, which can push fluid containing red blood cells into the lungs. In some cases, a bad-tasting cough can be a symptom of a condition called parosmia, which can cause foods to taste like garbage or burnt food.
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What You'll Learn
Upper respiratory infection
A bad taste in your mouth when coughing can be caused by a variety of conditions. One possible cause is an upper respiratory infection (URI), which can sometimes result in a metallic taste in the mouth. URIs are viral or bacterial infections that affect the respiratory tract above the vocal cords, including the nose, sinuses, throat (pharynx), and voice box (larynx). Symptoms of URIs can include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, headache, and other cold-like symptoms. Most URIs are caused by viruses and usually go away on their own within one to two weeks. However, some URIs, like strep throat and certain cases of sinusitis, are bacterial infections that may require treatment with antibiotics.
URIs can be caused by a variety of viruses and bacteria, leading to different patient diseases. Common causes of URIs include the rhinovirus, which is responsible for up to 80% of all respiratory infections during peak seasons. Other viruses that can cause URIs include the flu, COVID-19, and RSV. Bacteria such as S. pyogenes, a Group A streptococcus, can also cause URIs, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
In addition to causing a metallic taste in the mouth, URIs can lead to other complications. For example, URIs can sometimes cause inflammation in the lungs, which can lead to pneumonia. If left untreated, bacterial or fungal infections can spread to other parts of the body. Individuals with certain health conditions, a compromised immune system, or those over the age of 65 may be at higher risk for developing complications from a URI.
It is important to note that a bad-tasting cough can also be caused by other conditions, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, asthma, or acid reflux. If you are experiencing a persistent bad-tasting cough, it is recommended to seek medical advice to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
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Chronic conditions
While the exact taste of burnt cheese when coughing was not found, there are several reasons why one might experience an unusual taste. A metallic taste in the mouth, for example, can be caused by various factors, and understanding the underlying chronic conditions can provide insights into this phenomenon.
Infections and Illnesses:
Colds, sinus infections, and upper respiratory infections are common causes of a change in taste. These illnesses can lead to symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and coughing. Additionally, specific conditions like Bell's palsy and multiple sclerosis (MS) can also alter one's taste perception.
Pregnancy and Hormonal Changes:
Pregnancy can bring about temporary changes in taste perception, often resulting in a metallic taste at the beginning of pregnancy. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can also worsen heartburn symptoms, leading to a sour or bitter taste in the mouth.
Medications and Supplements:
Certain medications and supplements can interfere with taste. Antibiotics, prenatal vitamins, iron or calcium supplements, and multivitamins containing copper, zinc, or chromium are known to cause a metallic taste. This side effect is usually temporary and should subside soon after taking the pills.
Chemotherapy and Radiation:
Bitter or metallic tastes in the mouth are common side effects of chemotherapy and radiation treatments. These unpleasant sensations typically disappear once the treatment is completed.
Exposure to Toxins:
Inhaling high levels of mercury or lead can lead to a metallic taste in the mouth. This exposure can occur through industrial sites, broken household items (e.g., thermometers), lead-based paints, or lead-contaminated dust in older buildings. Long-term and short-term exposure to these toxins can be harmful, and removing the source of contamination is crucial.
Central Nervous System Disorders:
Central nervous system (CNS) disorders can cause taste distortion, making things taste different than usual. Dementia is one such condition where the part of the brain that controls taste may not function optimally, leading to altered taste perception.
If the taste of burnt cheese when coughing persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate guidance.
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Postnasal drip
- Cold and flu
- Allergies
- Infections
- Deviated septum
- Changing weather, cold temperatures, or dry air
- Certain foods, such as spicy dishes or dairy products
- Pregnancy and other hormonal changes
- Drugs, including birth control pills and high blood pressure medications
- Swallowing problems
There are several treatment options for postnasal drip, including home remedies and over-the-counter medications:
- A humidifier or steam inhalation (e.g. during a hot shower)
- Nasal decongestants, such as oxymetazoline (contained in Afrin), which should only be taken for a day or two to avoid causing more harm than good
- Antihistamines and decongestants are often helpful for postnasal drip caused by sinusitis and viral infections
- Steroid nasal sprays can be effective for postnasal drip caused by allergies
- Mucous-thinning agents, such as guaifenesin (Mucinex®, Robitussin®)
- Saline nasal irrigations to alleviate thickened secretions
- Drinking more water, eliminating caffeine, and avoiding diuretics to help thin out secretions
- For allergies, reducing exposure to triggers by dusting and vacuuming often, covering mattresses and pillowcases, and using a special air filter
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Intense exercise
Experiencing a metallic taste in the mouth during or after intense exercise is not uncommon for athletes. This phenomenon can be caused by a variety of factors, and while it is often harmless, it can sometimes indicate a more serious underlying condition.
Pulmonary Edema
Pulmonary edema is a condition where fluid accumulates in the lungs, specifically in the small air sacs of the organ. This fluid buildup can be caused by increased pressure in the lungs during intense exercise. The fluid can contain red blood cells, which can leak into the lung's air sacs and release hemoglobin, a molecule that contains iron. The iron in hemoglobin gives it a distinct metallic taste. This condition is known as exercise-induced pulmonary edema (EIPE) or exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB). EIB is characterised by symptoms such as shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, coughing, and wheezing. It is more common in endurance athletes, such as runners, swimmers, and triathletes, and can be triggered by intense exercises like sprinting or circuit training without rest periods.
Other Causes
The metallic taste during intense exercise can also be caused by mucous membrane irritation, old metal fillings in teeth, lactic acid buildup, or even a common cold. Intense exercise can irritate the mucus membranes, leading to a metallic taste. Additionally, metal fillings in teeth can also contribute to this taste. Lactic acid buildup during intense exercise can also cause a metallic taste, although this is less commonly reported. Furthermore, a severe cold can lead to mucus buildup, which can result in a metallic taste when coughing.
Precautions and Recommendations
If you frequently experience a metallic taste during or after intense exercise, accompanied by other symptoms such as coughing up blood or difficulty breathing, it is advisable to seek medical advice. While the taste is often harmless, it is important to rule out any potential underlying causes. Maintaining proper cardiovascular fitness, especially when training at high altitudes or in cold and dry air, can help reduce the likelihood of experiencing this taste. Additionally, a proper warm-up routine, including gentle exercises and breathing techniques, can help prepare your body for more intense physical activity and potentially reduce the occurrence of EIB symptoms.
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Allergic reactions
The strange taste you experience when you cough can be attributed to a chemical called capsaicin, which is found in chili peppers and is responsible for their spicy heat. This chemical is similar to the compounds found in burnt cheese, giving rise to that distinctive taste. This phenomenon is not directly linked to allergic reactions, which typically involve an immune system response, but there are some interesting connections to be made regarding taste and allergies.
In some cases, allergic reactions can cause inflammation in the mouth and throat, affecting taste buds and altering taste sensitivity. Inflammation can also lead to a decrease in saliva production, resulting in a dry mouth, which can further impact the sense of taste. Additionally, congestion and sinus pressure, common symptoms of allergies, can affect taste perception by obstructing the nasal passages, which play a crucial role in flavor detection.
While not a typical symptom, a distorted sense of taste can occur in rare cases of severe allergic reactions, known as anaphylaxis. This life-threatening condition can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, breathing difficulties, and, in some instances, a temporary alteration in taste. The mechanism behind this is not fully understood, but it could be related to the body's extreme immune response, which may affect nerve signaling, including taste perception.
It is important to note that while taste disturbances are not a common indicator of allergic reactions, they can be indicative of other underlying health issues. If you experience persistent changes in your sense of taste, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any potential medical conditions.
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Frequently asked questions
It is unusual to taste burnt cheese when you cough, and it could be a sign of an underlying condition. A bad taste in your mouth when you cough is usually caused by the mucus or sputum you are tasting. This can be caused by a range of issues, from a common cold to pneumonia or bronchitis.
Other causes of a bad taste when coughing include acid reflux, postnasal drip, and upper respiratory infections. In rarer cases, it could be a sign of something more serious, such as lung or throat cancer, pulmonary embolism, or lung injury.
If you are experiencing other symptoms such as shortness of breath, fever, chills, chest pain, or discomfort, you should seek medical attention. Additionally, if you are coughing up blood or experiencing blood in your phlegm or mucus, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
Treating the underlying cause of the cough can help with the bad taste. This may include taking cough medicine, antibiotics, or changing your medication if you have a chronic lung condition. Staying hydrated and quitting smoking can also help minimise the symptoms.
