It’s Important To Seek Medical Care for Loss of Smell

Our sense of smell allows us to more fully engage with the world around us. Medically known as anosmia, loss of smell is the inability to perceive odors. It is usually temporary, the result of a cold or upper respiratory infection, but in some cases–especially those involving the elderly–loss of smell may be permanent and a sign of a serious condition.

If you have noticed changes in your ability to smell, our providers at San Diego ENT can help you determine the cause and provide any necessary treatment.

What Causes Loss of Smell?

• Inflammation from colds, flu, allergies, sinusitis and nonallergic rhinitis
• Blocked airflow from nasal polyps, tumors and other obstructions
• Other conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, brain tumor, aneurysm, diabetes, cocaine use, chemical exposure, malnutrition, hormonal imbalances, medications, Parkinson’s disease, rhinoplasty, radiation therapy and old age

What Are the Symptoms of Loss of Smell?

Obviously, the telltale sign of anosmia is a loss of smell that cannot be traced to a cold or allergy. Some patients report a change in the way things smell. If the condition persists for longer than a week or two, you should consult a doctor.

How Is Loss of Smell Treated?

Treating anosmia depends on the cause. If a cold or allergies are to blame, treatment is unnecessary; your sense of smell should return in a few days as symptoms improve. If a polyp or other growth is blocking your nasal passages, surgery may be necessary.

For bacterial infections, antibiotics are prescribed. Other conditions may require more specialized medical treatment. Occasionally, the sense of smell returns on its own, without treatment.

Loss of smell can’t always be effectively treated, particularly if it’s due to age. In these cases, it’s important to take extra precautions to ensure your safety, and our team can help you navigate these changes.

Make sure the batteries in your smoke detectors are working properly and change them regularly. Take care when eating leftovers; your sense of smell directly affects your ability to taste, and consuming spoiled food could cause serious health problems.