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Warning-sign checks

Metallic taste: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services immediately if a sudden metallic taste occurs with:

    • Facial droop, one-sided weakness, or difficulty speaking
    • Severe confusion, loss of balance, or a sudden severe headache
    • Swelling of the lips, tongue, mouth, or throat
    • Trouble breathing or swallowing
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek same-day medical or dental care if you have spreading facial or mouth swelling, fever with severe tooth pain, or difficulty drinking.

    Get prompt advice after a suspected poisoning or significant chemical exposure.

    In the United States, Poison Control can be reached at 1-800-222-1222.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Book a routine appointment if the taste persists, keeps returning, or makes it difficult to eat.

    You should also arrange an assessment if you have unexplained weight loss, ongoing dry mouth, mouth sores, bleeding gums, or a new taste change after starting a medicine.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Metallic taste. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.