{"id":185,"date":"2019-03-26T19:05:35","date_gmt":"2019-03-26T19:05:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nalent.fm1.dev\/nose\/loss-of-smell\/"},"modified":"2019-06-28T21:36:51","modified_gmt":"2019-06-28T21:36:51","slug":"loss-of-smell","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/nalent.com\/nose\/loss-of-smell\/","title":{"rendered":"Loss of Smell"},"content":{"rendered":"
Loss of smell, known medically as anosmia, is an inability to perceive odors. It can be partial or complete and, while rarely the symptom of a serious condition, can still cause misery for those suffering from its effects. It is usually temporary, the result of a cold or upper respiratory infection, but in some cases \u2013 especially those involving the elderly \u2013 the loss of smell may be permanent and a sign of a serious condition. <\/p> \r\n\r\n\r\n
Anosmia occurs when the sinuses become swollen and inflamed. The most common causes include colds, flu, allergies, sinusitis and nonallergic rhinitis. Nasal obstructions such as polyps<\/a>, tumors and other deformities can block the flow of air through the nose and lead to a loss of smell. <\/p> \r\n\r\n There are many other possible causes including Alzheimer\u2019s disease, brain tumor, aneurysm, diabetes, cocaine use, chemical exposure, malnutrition, hormonal imbalances, medications, Parkinson\u2019s disease, rhinoplasty<\/a>, radiation therapy and old age, among others. <\/p> \r\n\r\n\r\n Obviously, the telltale sign of anosmia is a loss of smell that cannot be traced to a cold or allergy<\/a>. 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. <\/p> \r\n\r\n\r\n Treating anosmia depends on what is causing it. 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<\/a> or other growth is blocking your nasal passages, surgery may be necessary. <\/p> \r\n\r\n What Are the Symptoms of Loss of Smell? <\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n
How Is Loss of Smell Treated? <\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n