Hypogeusia is a reduced ability to taste
things (to taste sweet, sour, bitter, or salty substances). The complete lack
of taste is referred to as ageusia. Causes of hypogeusia include the
chemotherapy drug bleomycin, an antitumor antibiotic as well as zinc
deficiency.
Hypogeusia is often temporary and may
resolve itself. If your hypogeusia is the result of an infection, allergy, or
minor medical problem, correcting that problem usually helps to fully restore
taste. Even if the problem is more serious, treating the underlying cause of
hypogeusia can help to restore your sense of taste.
