Metallic Taste and Feeling Sick

Dear J1Snr

Thank you for contacting us here at Macmillan Cancer Support.  My name is Rae and I am a Cancer Information Nurse Specialist.

Whenever we are asked about new or worsening symptoms J1Snr, we always ask you to contact your treatment team in the hospital.  This is because we are not part of the NHS and have no access to your medical records.  We are sure that your team will want to help you trying to reduce the side effects.

Unfortunately, experiencing a metallic taste after chemotherapy and radiation for throat cancer is common, but there are several strategies you can try to alleviate this side effect.

If you are still constantly feeling nauseous, we would suggest speaking to your health care team.  They may be able to advise about an anti-sickness medication that you have not tried.  There are also non-pharmalogical ways to treat nausea which may work, such as aromatherapy, and sea bands. 

Once you are able to eat more food orally, there are more ways to try to cope with eating issues.

• Drink plenty of fluids, if your mouth is not sore, you can add lemon, lime or other citrus fruits to your water to help mask the metallic taste. Please bear in mind your teeth health if using this method.
• Using plastic utensils can sometimes help reduce the metallic taste.
• Before eating, rinse your mouth with a solution of baking soda and water, or try drinking ginger ale or ginger tea. This can help clear your taste buds.
• Experiment with different foods as some people find that cold foods are more palatable or foods with stronger flavours. Also some people find that certain food groups, such as red meat can taste very metallic, so eating chicken, fish or plant-based protein may help.
• Keep your mouth clean by maintaining oral hygiene.

There is also support from a Cancer & Nutrition helpline.  You can also speak to your own hospital dietitian.

It is important to look after your emotional needs when faced with cancer treatment.

We have local Macmillan support available In Your Area.  Information about coping with treatment.  We have our online community forums, with a Head & Neck Cancer Forum.  There is also the Cancer Care Map where you can find options for more local support.

Of course, we are also here 7 days a week, 8am to 8pm if you would like to speak to our nurses via phone or through webchat.

Best wishes

Rae,

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.

Ref/RH/HK

Thank you Rae for your guidance