Be very careful if it comes out in your mouth — you may be infected with something serious. Health experts are warning that certain unexpected symptoms, particularly those that involve unusual tastes, discharges, or sensations in the mouth, could signal underlying infections or diseases that require immediate medical attention.
In recent months, doctors have reported a rise in patients presenting with mysterious oral symptoms — including strange-colored saliva, persistent metallic taste, sores, swelling, or spontaneous fluid leaks from the gums or tongue. While many people dismiss these issues as minor or dental-related, experts caution that they could be signs of more serious infections.
One alarming possibility is viral or bacterial infection. For example, herpes simplex virus can cause sores or blisters to form inside the mouth. Strep throat or scarlet fever can sometimes result in pus-like discharge, often mistaken for simple throat phlegm. Thrush, a yeast infection caused by Candida overgrowth, can produce a white coating on the tongue and cheeks, sometimes accompanied by oozing or irritation.
Another major concern is sinus infections, which can drain into the mouth, carrying bacteria or other substances. If mucus or pus-like material suddenly appears in the mouth without any obvious oral injury, it could be coming from an infected sinus cavity, especially if it’s accompanied by pressure around the nose, forehead, or eyes.
But perhaps the most concerning are emerging viral illnesses or rare infections that affect salivary glands or even the brain. Encephalitis, for instance, has been known to present with early oral signs such as excessive drooling, confusion, and strange mouth secretions. Rabies, although rare in many countries, famously starts with mouth and throat symptoms in humans, often accompanied by a fear of water and inability to swallow.
Medical professionals are also paying attention to cases where individuals report a sudden salty or bitter taste, followed by unusual sensations — tingling, burning, or the perception of a chemical taste. These could suggest anything from metal poisoning to early symptoms of neurological disorders or autoimmune conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, where the body attacks its own saliva-producing glands.
Infections of the salivary glands, such as sialadenitis, can result in pus draining into the mouth. This can cause a sudden burst of foul-tasting fluid and swelling of the jaw or cheek area. Patients often think they bit into something rancid, only to find out they have a bacterial infection needing antibiotics.
Another overlooked culprit is dental abscesses — infections that form at the root of a tooth or between the gums and teeth. In some cases, pressure buildup causes the abscess to burst, releasing pus into the mouth. This can be extremely painful and dangerous if left untreated, potentially spreading the infection to the jaw, neck, or even the bloodstream (a condition called sepsis).
Tonsillitis and infected tonsillar stones (tonsilloliths) can also release foul-smelling or bitter-tasting debris into the mouth, especially when coughing, sneezing, or yawning. Some people are unaware they even have these until a small, white, crumbly chunk emerges — often described as “cheese-like” with an intensely bad odor. While common, these stones can sometimes become infected and require removal or tonsillectomy.
Warning signs that you may be infected include:
- Bad taste that won’t go away
- Fluid, pus, or blood appearing in the mouth without clear cause
- Sudden swelling of the cheeks, tongue, or gums
- Painful or tender areas inside the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- A metallic or chemical taste
- Chronic dry mouth or thick saliva
- Fever, fatigue, or headache combined with oral symptoms
Doctors urge people not to self-diagnose based on symptoms alone. “Any unexpected secretion in the mouth, especially if it’s foul-smelling or discolored, is your body trying to tell you something’s wrong,” said Dr. Alana Pierce, an infectious disease specialist. “Ignoring it or hoping it will go away on its own could lead to serious complications.”
It’s not just infections that cause concern. Certain toxic exposures — such as lead, arsenic, or mercury — can cause symptoms in the mouth, including discharge, discoloration, or extreme tastes. Occupational workers, especially in factories or laboratories, are advised to be cautious and undergo regular screenings.
With rising awareness of long COVID symptoms, patients are also reporting strange mouth-related issues weeks or months after recovering from initial infection. Some describe phantom tastes, bleeding gums, or mucus-like discharge unrelated to dental hygiene.
In some extreme cases, mouth discharge or unusual fluid could even be linked to autoimmune diseases or rare cancers affecting the mouth, throat, or sinuses. Early detection can be life-saving.
If you ever wake up with something in your mouth that doesn’t seem right — especially if it’s wet, sticky, salty, or smells bad — don’t panic, but do take action. Document the symptom, take a photo if possible, and seek professional help. Oral symptoms can be the first visible sign of a systemic issue.
Practicing good oral hygiene, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol can help reduce the risk of infections. But most importantly, listening to your body is key. “The mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body,” Dr. Pierce said. “When something unusual comes out of it, we need to pay attention.”
In conclusion, if something unexpectedly comes out of your mouth — fluid, pus, or even blood — be careful. It could be a minor issue, or it could be a sign of something more serious. When in doubt, always seek medical attention. Early treatment can prevent complications, and being vigilant about your body’s warning signs is the best way to stay safe and healthy.
