anososmia

Anosmia is a medical condition characterized by a complete or partial loss of one's ability to perceive odors. The term anosmia is derived from the Greek words "a" meaning "without" and "osme" meaning "smell." This condition affects approximately 15% of the general population over the age of 60 and 20% of people over the age of 80, although anosmia can occur at any age.

Types of Anosmia

According to the Rhinologic and Allergy Group, anosmia can be categorized into two main types: blank anosmia and threshold anosmia. Blank anosmia involves a complete loss of one's sense of smell, while threshold anosmia means an increased threshold for detecting odors. Additionally, there is a third category called microsmia, which is characterized by a partial loss of one's sense of smell, such that it affects the ability to identify complex odors but not simple ones like salt.

Causes

The causes of anosmia vary and can be attributed to a range of factors including but not limited to: viral infections such as the common cold or flu, head trauma, certain medications, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's. Sinus infections, polyps, and other nasal passages obstructions are also contributing factors.

Consequences

Folks who suffer from anosmia may experience a reduced quality of life in that they may encounter difficulties at the grocery store due to unintentionally purchasing food that is spoiled, an imbalance of nutrition in their diets, and discomfort in social settings due to their impaired sense of smell.

Symptoms

If you have the symptoms the typical symptoms of anosmia include difficulty detecting a burnt dinner or soiled bed even though it smells foul.

Diagnosis

This diagnosis involves a complete examination by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, as well as a smell test, to rule out nasal deformities or infection as a possible cause. Treatment may involve medications and surgery to correct nasal obstructions, and may require an assessment of a diminished perception to surpass food seclusion.