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Real members of MyMSTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Does anyone else deal with your taste buds going in and out?

A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
Amelia, LA

For instance, I tasted the toothpaste as soon as I put the toothbrush in my mouth. When I was finishing up brushing my teeth, I could no longer the toothpaste. I've been dealing with this for years. Every year I used to think that it was my sinuses until I was dx and read up on the symptoms of MS. It's frustrating because when it comes to eating what's the purpose if it's like I'm chewing on site. Who's dealing with the same and how are you handling it?

November 20, 2024
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A MyMSTeam Member

I’ve completely lost all taste before. I’m glad its back makes eating that much better. 🤗 hang in there

November 20, 2024
A MyMSTeam Member

I've been hanging in for 10 years but it's so frustrating especially when you're hungry. Why am I eating if it's like I'm chewing on air🤦🏾‍♀️ but we have to eat🤷🏾‍♀️. I haven't experienced any numbness and I pray I don't. I've already have numbness in my fingers the last 11 years.

November 23, 2024
A MyMSTeam Member

Not sure it's my taste buds per se, but the front 1/3 of my tongue gets periods of numbness. Which is like 😒🤨🤦🤷.

November 20, 2024
MyMSTeam

Changes in taste are a common issue for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). About 25% of people with MS experience loss or changes in their sense of taste. This can be frustrating and impact the enjoyment of eating, leading to reduced appetite, low energy, and weight loss. Here are some key points to consider:

- MS Brain Show Full Answer

Changes in taste are a common issue for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). About 25% of people with MS experience loss or changes in their sense of taste. This can be frustrating and impact the enjoyment of eating, leading to reduced appetite, low energy, and weight loss. Here are some key points to consider:

- MS Brain Lesions: Changes in taste may be linked to the size and number of MS lesions in the brain, which can interfere with sensory information for taste.
- Medications: Some disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for MS can cause side effects that affect taste, such as dysgeusia (distorted sense of taste), mouth sores, and oral pain.
- Other Conditions: Loss of taste can also be caused by other conditions or medications, so it's important to discuss any changes with your doctor.

Tips for Managing Taste Changes:
- Explore different spices and food textures.
- Take time to smell your meal before eating.
- Chew slowly and let the food move around different parts of your tongue.
- Consult with a doctor or registered dietitian for menu planning and tips to enhance your eating experience.

If you notice sudden changes in taste, it could be a sign of an MS flare or another serious condition, so it's important to speak with your doctor.

November 20, 2024

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