{"id":192,"date":"2019-11-14T19:17:29","date_gmt":"2019-11-15T00:17:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/theentcenter.fm1.dev\/nose\/loss-of-smell\/"},"modified":"2020-06-18T19:07:45","modified_gmt":"2020-06-18T23:07:45","slug":"loss-of-smell","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/theentcenter.com\/ent\/loss-of-smell\/","title":{"rendered":"Loss of Smell"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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>\n\n\n\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, tumors and other deformities can block the flow of air through the nose and lead to a loss of smell. <\/p>\n\n\n\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, radiation therapy and old age, among others. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n