Are a Bitter Taste in Mouth and Heart Disease Linked?

A bitter taste in mouth and heart disease are, in some people’s minds closely linked. This is especially true when chest pain accompanies that bitter taste. The person experiencing both signs may quickly suspect coronary disease and rush to seek information.

A bitter taste in mouth and heart disease are not usually linked, however. There are several other causes of bitter taste in the mouth.

Causes of Bitter Taste in Mouth

A bitter taste in mouth and heart disease are commonly connected when the taste is caused by heartburn or one of its companions, acid reflux, or GERD. The backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus can trigger an acid, bitter taste in the mouth. When heartburn causes a burning sensation in the chest, it is natural to wonder if there is a cardiovascular problem. Since heart attack is a possibility, you should seek help immediately if other heart attack symptoms are present.

Here are examples of other causes of bad tastes in the mouth, some of which are bitter. This list is not meant to be complete, and you are urged to ask your health care provider for a careful diagnosis.

* Gastritis - foul taste: Heart disease is likely not the cause of this bad taste.

* Dental problem - foul taste: There can be a link between periodontal disease and heart disease. Research shows that those with periodontal disease have almost double the risk of heart disease as those without periodontal disease. Check with your doctor.

* Heartburn - acid taste: As mentioned above, heart attack can sometimes be mistaken for heart attack. If you have a bitter, acid taste in your mouth, a burning sensation, and additional heart attack systems, seek help immediately.

* Jaundice - bitter taste: On rare occasions, jaundice is the first sign of heart disease. Talk to your doctor.

* Lead poisoning - metallic taste: One effect of lead poisoning is heart disease. If additional symptoms are present, seek help.

* Mercury poisoning - metallic taste: The author finds no link between mercury poisoning and heart disease, but recommends that you ask a licensed physician.

CAUTION: The information given here is for educational purposes only. Always seek prompt professional medical advice if bitter taste in mouth is accompanied by other symptoms, specific or vague.