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Jun 11, 2024 · These senses are so interwoven that sometimes, what seems to be a loss of taste is a loss of smell. True loss of taste (ageusia) is rare. Many conditions can interfere with taste, but it...
What causes loss of smell and taste? Aging often contributes to a diminished ability to smell and taste. Other causes include: Brain injuries. Cancer treatments like radiation therapy. Dry mouth from Sjogren’s syndrome or other conditions. Exposure to chemicals. Gum disease (gingivitis) and other dental problems.
- The Smell-Taste Connection. When your sense of smell goes south, taste usually follows. That’s because the olfactory area in your nose controls both.
- Age. As you age, you lose some of the olfactory nerve fibers in your nose. You have fewer taste buds, and the ones you have left aren’t as sharp, especially over age 60.
- Illness or Infection. Anything that irritates and inflames the inner lining of your nose and makes it feel stuffy, runny, itchy, or drippy can affect your senses of smell and taste.
- Obstructions. If you can’t get enough air through your nose, your sense of smell suffers. And smell affects taste. Blockages happen if you have nasal polyps.
Aug 4, 2005 · Causes. A stuffy nose from a cold is a common cause for a partial, brief loss of smell. A polyp or swelling inside the nose can lead to a loss of smell. Aging can cause a loss of smell, especially after age 60.
Aug 7, 2024 · Loss of taste and smell can happen for many reasons. It might be due to a virus, including COVID-19. But it can also be a warning sign for serious medical issues, including dementia or a concussion. If you experience a loss of taste or smell, it’s important to talk with your healthcare professional.
Anosmia means you’ve lost your sense of smell. Often, it’s a side effect of common medical issues like colds, seasonal allergies or polyps in your nose. Your sense of smell usually comes back once the underlying issue goes away or you receive treatment. Sometimes anosmia doesn’t go away.
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What causes smell and taste disorders? Some people are born with these disorders, but most are caused by: Illness (for example, cold or flu, sinus infection, and allergies) Head injury. Hormone changes. Dental or mouth problems. Nasal polyps. Exposure to certain chemicals. Certain medicines. Exposure to radiation therapy for head or neck cancer.