Sjogren's Syndrome: Indications It Could Be More Serious

Changes In Or Loss Of Taste

Researchers have established individuals with Sjogren's syndrome are more likely to develop taste disorders. These may include diminished taste, also called hypogeusia; altered taste, also called dysgeusia; and the loss of taste, also called ageusia. Like other mouth-related complications, the issue can be attributed to a lack of saliva. For an individual to fully taste the flavors in food, the food must be fully coated in saliva. In addition, saliva protects the taste buds and other oral structures from damage. Without this protective coating, taste buds may erode or become injured. Saliva also carries food across the tongue to allow the taste buds to experience it fully. It's important for patients with taste disorders to receive a medical evaluation, as these changes can also be caused by other medical conditions or medications.

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