A metallic taste is not generally severe and can be a sign of various things. Treatment will depend on the cause.
Why Do You Have Persistent Cough With Metallic Taste?
The fact that you do not see blood when you cough is assuring, because this makes it not likely that you have a serious infection or other source of bleeding in your chest or lungs. There are several conditions that can cause bleeding with cough, such as a tumor in the lungs or a tuberculosis infection; however, typically in these conditions the amount of blood that is produced suffices that it is apparent with coughing.
Nevertheless, it is still possible to ‘taste’ blood with cough associated to a number of other conditions. This metallic taste may be since of tiny amounts of blood from the irritation of the lining of the nose and throat from coughing or blowing your nose. It is also possible that the metallic blood taste is really from chronic mucus congestion, which often will produce a similar taste to blood.
Other Causes of Persistent Cough With Metallic Taste You Should Know
Bronchitis
Bronchitis, an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, causes cough, dark or yellow mucus, chest pain and more.
Asthma (child)
Asthma is a chronic condition that causes swelling and narrowing in the air passages, triggering cough and more.
Medication response or side-effect
Medication side effects consist of queasiness, vomiting, indigestion, weak point, lightheadedness, seizures, and more.
Viral pharyngitis
Viral pharyngitis is an aching throat triggered by an infection, and triggers throat pain and cold-like symptoms.
Dust direct exposure
Dust exposure can cause blockage, runny nose, cough, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, and more.
Antibiotic usage
Antibiotics can trigger stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, itching, rashes and dizziness.
Goiter
A goiter is a bigger thyroid gland, triggering a lump in the throat below the Adam’s apple.
Smoke exposure
Direct exposure to smoke can cause coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, chest pain, and more.
Poisoning
Poisoning can cause nausea, vomiting, drooling, dry mouth, changes in pupil size, and more.
Emphysema
Emphysema is a chronic lung condition that causes shortness of breath, a chronic cough, wheezing, and more.
Causes vs. Treatment Chart
| Cause | What you can do |
|---|---|
| Gum disease | regularly brush your teeth, use dental floss, have a check-up at the dentist every 6 months |
| Taking medicine, like antibiotics | speak to a pharmacist for advice – don’t stop taking prescribed medicine without medical advice |
| Cancer treatment, like chemotherapy or radiation therapy | eat stronger tasting food, like ginger, spices and boiled sweets |
| Colds, sinus infections and other airway problems | the taste should go away once the problem has cleared up |
| Indigestion | the taste should go away when you treat your indigestion |
| Being pregnant | the taste is usually temporary and clears up by itself |
