Since starting breast cancer treatment, have you noticed an unpleasant metallic taste in your mouth at times? Many MyBCTeam members have reported this sensation, especially after receiving lymphatic drainage massage.

In this article, we’ll explore how a bitter taste in your mouth may be related to breast cancer treatment, whether there’s a connection between lymph drainage massage and this phenomenon, and what you can do to manage this symptom.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Many people have lymph nodes removed as part of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Lymph nodes are an important part of the immune system, responsible for helping to cycle lymph fluid throughout the body. Unfortunately, cancer cells can spread through the lymph system and wind up in lymph nodes near the tumor.

The removal of a lymph node from the armpit can lead to a blockage in lymphatic flow and cause fluid to build up where the surgery took place. This swelling is called lymphedema, and it is a chronic (ongoing) issue that has no cure. However, there are many options for managing this condition to improve your quality of life.

Lymphatic drainage massage is one method for managing symptoms of lymphedema. While this type of therapy is best done by a licensed massage therapist, it’s also possible to learn simplified lymphatic massage techniques you can perform on yourself at home. However, be mindful that you should avoid lymphatic massage if you have signs of infection, as this technique can cause infection to spread.

Manual lymphatic drainage is a two-step process:

1. Clearing — Releasing lymphatic fluid from within your tissues
2. Reabsorption — Moving lymph fluid into your lymph nodes

Manual lymph drainage is meant to simulate the healthy circulation of lymph fluid throughout the affected part of the body and the rest of your lymphatic system.

Is Metallic Taste Related to Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

Scientists haven’t studied the adverse effects of lymphatic drainage massage, so it’s hard to tell exactly what symptoms may be linked to massage-therapy side effects. However, some MyBCTeam members have reported developing a metallic taste in their mouths after receiving a lymphatic drainage massage. One MyBCTeam member shared, “I completed chemo more than three months ago, and radiation last month. I still have this bitter taste in my mouth, which gets more intense after a massage. Any suggestions?”

Another member replied, “If it’s worse after a massage, that means they’re pushing it out through the lymphatic system. I would talk to your massage therapist about it. They may be able to help you ‘flush’ it out!”

According to the Institute for Integrative Healthcare, having an odd or metallic taste in your mouth after receiving bodywork is one potential symptom of a reaction called a “healing crisis,” which, according to the organization, “occurs when the body tries to eliminate toxins at a faster rate than they can be disposed of.” Scientific research is still needed to show a connection between receiving bodywork and developing that strange taste.

Metallic Taste and Breast Cancer Treatment

If you are experiencing a metallic taste in your mouth while undergoing breast cancer treatment, it is likely a side effect of a medication. Some drugs used to treat breast cancer can cause a change your sense of taste or smell, including:

• Certain chemotherapy drugs, such as, fluorouracil (Adrucil), ixabepilone (Ixempra), and docetaxel (Taxotere)
• Some targeted therapies, like bevacizumab (Avastin) and olaparib (Lynparza)

Some MyBCTeam members have also reported a metallic taste while taking tamoxifen and letrozole (Femara).

How To Manage Metallic Taste

Taste changes, including a metallic taste, are a common and frustrating side effect of breast cancer treatment. While this sensation can be disruptive to your daily life, it’s usually harmless. If you’re experiencing this reaction, here are some tips that may help:

• Suck on ice chips to numb your taste buds.
• Choose foods carefully, avoiding bitter foods and canned food that may taste metallic.
• Before eating, rinse your mouth with salt water, baking soda water, tea, or ginger ale.
• Brush your teeth, floss, and use mouthwash regularly to clear any residual food and bacteria.
• Eat several hours before receiving a lymphatic drainage massage, and only have a light meal.
• Stay hydrated.

One member shared how they reduce metallic taste: “Be sure you’re really well hydrated, as that helps your body expel the remaining chemicals that your body doesn’t need anymore. Drink way more water than you’re thirsty for. I also like to have some electrolyte drinks.”

It’s important to call your oncologist if you’re experiencing new or worsening side effects or if the metallic taste gets worse or persists long after your treatment has ended. Before seeing a massage therapist for a lymphatic drainage massage, talk to your doctor to ensure that it’s safe and recommended for you.

Talk With Others Who Understand

On MyBCTeam — the social network for people with breast cancer and their loved ones — more than 64,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their experiences with others who understand life with breast cancer.

Have you ever experienced a metallic taste in your mouth after receiving a lymph node drainage massage? Share your experience in the comments below, or join the conversation on MyBCTeam.