dysgeusia

Meaning of dysgeusia: Dysgeusia is a general term for any disturbance in the sense of taste, including reduced, distorted, or absent taste perception.

Definition of dysgeusia

Dysgeusia is a broad term for a disturbance in the sense of taste, encompassing a range of changes that include a reduced ability to taste, a distorted or unpleasant taste sensation, and, in its most complete form, a total loss of taste. The word is often used as an umbrella term under which more specific patterns of taste disturbance are described.

Dysgeusia can result from many causes, including medications, upper respiratory infections, dental and oral conditions, nerve damage along taste pathways, nutritional deficiencies, and certain treatments affecting the mouth or throat. Because taste and smell are closely connected, a change in the sense of smell often contributes to or accompanies dysgeusia.

Parageusia, a distorted or unpleasant taste occurring without an obvious food source, is one specific pattern that falls within the broader category of dysgeusia.