Anosmia-
Loss of Smell: Causes, Management and Treatment
Anosmia is the loss of sense of smell and hyposmia the reduction of the sense of smell, which can significantly affect your quality of life. It can happen suddenly or gradually and may be temporary or permanent.
Common Causes of Anosmia:
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Viral infections: Common colds or flu can temporarily affect your sense of smell.
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Sinus infections: Swelling or blockage in the nasal passages can prevent smells from reaching the olfactory nerves.
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Allergies: Hay fever or other allergic reactions can cause inflammation in the nose, leading to anosmia.
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Nasal polyps: Non-cancerous growths in the nasal passages can obstruct airflow and smell.
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Head injuries: Trauma to the head can damage the olfactory nerves.
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Age-related changes: As we age, the sense of smell can naturally decline.
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Rarely, anosmia may be caused by nasal or brain tumours.
Management and Treatment Options:
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Nasal sprays or steroid treatments can help reduce inflammation and clear blockages.
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Saline rinses may help clear nasal passages and improve airflow.
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Olfactory training, a process of sniffing essential oils or familiar scents, may help re-train the sense of smell, especially after viral infections.
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In cases of structural issues like polyps or chronic sinusitis, surgical intervention might be considered.
When to See an ENT Specialist: If the loss of smell lasts more than a few weeks, affects you or your child, or is associated with other symptoms like headaches, fever, or difficulty breathing, it’s important to consult an ENT consultant. We can assess the cause and guide you toward the most appropriate treatment, helping restore your sense of smell and overall well-being.