Why Do I Have a Bitter Taste in My Mouth and a Dry Tongue?
Many people have experienced a bitter taste in their mouths and dryness of their tongues. When this occurs, people often attribute it to drinking insufficient water. However, there are numerous reasons for these symptoms, and they are not necessarily caused by dehydration. Poor oral hygiene can lead to oral diseases, such as dental caries and gingivitis, which may contribute to these symptoms.
One reason is improper oral hygiene habits, which can lead to various oral diseases. These diseases, such as dental caries, oral ulcers, and gingivitis, can disrupt the oral environment and cause a bitter taste and dryness.
Another reason may be excessive heat in the liver, stomach, or lungs. According to traditional Chinese medicine, a bitter taste and dry mouth can be caused by damp-heat in the liver and gallbladder, or excessive stomach or lung fire. These conditions can lead to symptoms such as a noisy stomach, hunger, dry mouth, short and intense urine, and constipation.
Lastly, psychological factors can also contribute to a bitter taste or emotional bitterness. These symptoms often occur or worsen during times of stress, anger, irritation, anxiety, fear, uneasiness, and insomnia. According to domestic doctors, 60% of 286 patients with a bitter taste reported psychological causes, often accompanied by functional gastrointestinal disorders such as functional dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome.
If you only experience a bitter taste for a short period, there is no need for excessive concern as it may disappear naturally. However, if the symptoms persist or are accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, fever, weight loss, and significant fatigue, it is recommended to consult a dentist, gastroenterologist, or hepatobiliary specialist to check for conditions such as cholecystitis, gallstones, or other digestive and systemic diseases.
Additionally, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene and health habits in daily life, as poor oral hygiene is often closely related to the causes of these symptoms. Drinking plenty of water and rinsing your mouth frequently can help prevent these issues.
Lastly, it is crucial to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet in your daily life to better prevent and treat these symptoms.