Which taste alteration is a toxic sign of lithium toxicity?

Which taste alteration is a toxic sign of lithium toxicity?

• A. Metallic taste
• B. Tremors
• C. Nausea
• D. Dizziness

Answer: (A)

Metallic taste is a known early sign of lithium toxicity. A change in taste, described as a metallic sensation in the mouth, can indicate rising lithium levels before more obvious neurological symptoms develop. While tremors, nausea, and dizziness can also occur with lithium toxicity, they are not taste alterations. If a patient on lithium reports a metallic taste, it should prompt checking the serum lithium level and evaluating for potential toxicity so appropriate action can be taken.

Metallic taste is a known early sign of lithium toxicity. A change in taste, described as a metallic sensation in the mouth, can indicate rising lithium levels before more obvious neurological symptoms develop. While tremors, nausea, and dizziness can also occur with lithium toxicity, they are not taste alterations. If a patient on lithium reports a metallic taste, it should prompt checking the serum lithium level and evaluating for potential toxicity so appropriate action can be taken.