Getting an injection at the doctor’s office or hospital is very common. While most people don’t think twice about it, some may notice an odd side effect afterwards – a metallic taste in the mouth. This unusual symptom can be surprising and concerning if you’ve never experienced it before. However, there’s no need to worry. Let’s discuss some of the common causes and what to do if it happens to you.
There are a few possible explanations for that metal mouth sensation. One is that the needle or injected medication irritated nerves that run from the injection site to the taste buds on your tongue. It’s also possible you just had a stress or anxiety response to the shot. The chemical changes that happen when you’re nervous can alter taste perception.
Sometimes the medication itself is to blame. Certain compounds have a bitter or metallic flavor that you may taste as the drug enters the bloodstream and makes its way to the taste buds. The good news is this is a harmless side effect that fades quickly as the medication distributes through the body.
The bothersome metal mouth feeling typically goes away within a few minutes up to an hour or so. It’s unusual for it to persist much longer than that. If you still notice a persistent metallic or other odd taste a day or more after your injection, let your doctor know. An extended duration could signify something more serious like an allergic reaction or nerve damage.
Read: The Science Behind Metallic Taste
While you wait patiently for that annoying metal mouth to dissipate, here are some tips that can help:
As mentioned, it’s generally nothing to fret over if a metal mouth subsides within an hour or so. Call your doctor if:
These can indicate an allergy or nerve issue that needs medical evaluation. Report any injection site reactions too like significant pain, swelling, or discoloration.
You may check: Metallic Taste After Surgery
That unpalatable metal flavor can be annoying but know it’s only temporary. Whether it’s lingering medication or just your body’s response to the injection, it will pass quickly. Use distractions like hard candy, mouth rinse, or MetaQil® to help mask it. Before you know it, your mouth will be back to its normal taste. Focus on the positives – you got through a shot and took good care of your health!
