Anosmia: When the Sense of Smell Fades Away
Some individuals lose their ability to smell as it slowly deteriorates or disappears altogether, significantly impacting quality of life. This phenomenon is medically termed as Anosmia
Our sense of smell has a huge role in our day-to-day life, right from allowing us to enjoy food and recall pleasant memories to detect dangers like smoke or gas leak. Sadly, some individuals lose their ability to smell as it slowly deteriorates or disappears altogether, significantly impacting quality of life. This phenomenon is medically termed as Anosmia. On behalf of World Anosmia Day, Dr. Leena Balachandar, Consultant, ENT, Head & Neck Surgeon, Manipal Hospital Varthur and Whitefield helps us shed some light on this often-overlooked condition.
Causes of Anosmia:
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Loss of smell can be partial or complete. This condition can occur due to various reasons, including:
• Common Colds & Sinus Infections: Viral infections, seasonal allergy, and sinusitis can cause temporary anosmia.
• COVID-19 & Viral Infections: One of the most common symptoms of coronavirus was anosmia which took a longer time of recovery in patients.
• Nasal Blockage: Polyps, tumors, or severe congestion can block odour molecules from reaching the smell receptors.
• Head Injury & Neurological Disorders: Trauma or neurological conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s Disease can lead to loss of anosmia, most significantly damaging pathways to the sense of smell.
• Aging & Medication Side Effects: As we age, the sense of smell naturally declines. Along with aging, certain medications can also lead to a decline in sense of smell.
How to Treat Anosmia?
Treatment of anosmia largely depends on its root cause. Some cases of anosmia can resolve on its own, however, others are long-term and require appropriate management by an ENT specialist. If loss of smell occurs due to seasonal infections and allergies, patients may be prescribed nasal sprays, antihistamines, and decongestants for a shorter duration. Smell training therapy which involves repeated exposure to different scents has also shown promising results, especially for post-viral anosmia. In situations where anosmia is associated with neurological diseases or factors related to aging, treatment will focus on managing underlying conditions. For nasal polyps or structural abnormalities, surgery might be required depending on the severity of the condition.
Thus, if you or someone you love has been experiencing chronic loss of smell, it is necessary to see an ENT specialist. The earlier the diagnosis, the better chances there are for a positive outcome, as well as a better quality of life. Let us raise awareness and support those affected by this invisible and often-overlooked condition.
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