Browse Medications by Everyday Health Concerns: Loss of smell
Written by Amar Lunagaria
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Reviewed by James Wong
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Updated Jan 27, 2025
•Published Jan 15, 2025
Fact checkedWhat is Loss of smell?
Loss of smell, also known as anosmia, is the partial or complete inability to detect odors. It can occur suddenly or gradually, and can be temporary or permanent, depending on the cause. Understanding the causes and treatments for loss of smell can help you manage your condition and potentially restore your sense of smell.
Symptoms of Loss of smell
Symptoms of loss of smell may include:
- Inability to detect scents or flavors, even with strong odors
- Altered or distorted sense of smell, where familiar smells may seem different
- Loss of taste, as smell is closely linked to taste
- Mild to severe nasal congestion, which may affect your ability to breathe through your nose
What causes Loss of smell?
Loss of smell can be caused by:
- Upper respiratory infections, such as the flu, cold, or COVID-19
- Sinus infections or sinusitis, which can block nasal passages
- Allergies, leading to nasal congestion and inflammation
- Nasal polyps or tumors, which obstruct the nasal passages
- Neurological conditions, like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease, which affect the brain's ability to process smells
Risk factors for Loss of smell
Risk factors for loss of smell include:
- Frequent respiratory infections, which can damage the olfactory system
- Chronic sinusitis or allergies, which can lead to long-term nasal congestion
- Age, as the sense of smell can decline naturally over time
- Exposure to chemicals or toxins, which can harm the olfactory nerves
- Neurological disorders, which can affect the brain's ability to process smells
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How is Loss of smell diagnosed?
Loss of smell is diagnosed through:
- Physical examination, to check for nasal blockages, inflammation, or other issues
- Smell tests, where different scents are used to assess your olfactory function
- Medical history review, to identify any conditions or medications that may be contributing
- Imaging tests, such as CT scans or MRIs, to check for sinus issues or tumors
How is Loss of smell treated?
Treatment for loss of smell depends on the underlying cause and may include:
- Treating sinus infections or allergies with medications such as decongestants or antihistamines
- Using nasal sprays or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and improve airflow
- Smell training exercises, which involve regularly sniffing various scents to stimulate the olfactory system
- Surgical intervention, if there are structural issues like polyps or tumors obstructing the nasal passages
Medications for Loss of smell
NiHowdy can help you save on medications for conditions causing loss of smell, such as allergy medications, nasal sprays, and decongestants. With NiHowdy's discounts and Bitcoin rebates, you can manage your condition more affordably.
Can Loss of smell be prevented?
While some causes of loss of smell, like aging or neurological disorders, cannot be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:
- Managing allergies with regular medication and avoiding allergens
- Treating respiratory infections promptly, to prevent complications
- Maintaining good nasal hygiene, such as using saline sprays to keep nasal passages clear
- Avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals or toxins that can damage the olfactory system
Managing Loss of smell at home
To manage loss of smell at home:
- Use saline nasal sprays to reduce congestion and keep nasal passages hydrated
- Practice smell training by regularly sniffing a variety of scents to stimulate the olfactory system
- Avoid irritants, such as smoke or strong chemicals, that can worsen the condition
- Stay hydrated to keep your nasal passages and respiratory system functioning well
When should you seek help for Loss of smell?
Seek help if:
- Loss of smell persists for more than a few weeks
- It's accompanied by other symptoms, like headache, fever, or facial pain
- You experience a sudden or severe loss of smell, especially after a head injury
- The loss of smell is affecting your ability to taste or enjoy food
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How NiHowdy helps with Loss of smell
NiHowdy helps you save on medications for conditions that can cause loss of smell, such as sinus infections, allergies, or nasal polyps. With NiHowdy's savings and Bitcoin rebates, you can afford the treatments that will help restore your sense of smell.
Success stories with Loss of smell
Finnian struggled with loss of smell due to chronic sinusitis. After using NiHowdy to save 40% on his allergy medication, he was able to manage his condition and regain his ability to smell.
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