Loss of Smell

What Causes Loss of Smell, and How is it Treated?

Wondering why you’ve lost your sense of smell? Could it be related to COVID-19 or something more serious? Learn about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of anosmia with the experts at Pinnacle ENT.

Anosmia, or the loss of smell, can be disorienting and frustrating. It often occurs when the sinuses become swollen and inflamed due to common ailments like colds, allergies, and nonallergic rhinitis. However, the causes can also be more complex.

At Pinnacle ENT, we specialize in diagnosing the root cause of your anosmia and providing personalized treatment options to help you regain your smell.

What Causes Loss of Smell?

Anosmia can result from various causes and conditions, each impacting the sense of smell in different ways.

The Most Common Causes of Anosmia:

• Sinus Inflammation: conditions like colds, flu, allergies, sinusitis, and nonallergic rhinitis can all cause swelling that can interrupt your sense of smell

• Nasal Obstructions: polyps and tumors can block airflow through your nose, preventing smells from reaching your olfactory receptors

• Neurological Diseases: conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s, and brain tumors

• Infections: COVID-19 has been notably associated with anosmia, affecting the cells that support the olfactory sensors

• Other Causes: conditions like aneurysms, diabetes, chemical exposure, malnutrition, hormonal imbalances, and even illicit drug use can lead to anosmia. Additionally, procedures like rhinoplasty, radiation therapy, and even aging can cause a decline in smell.

Why Does COVID-19 Cause Loss of Smell?

The connection between COVID-19 and anosmia has been the focus of significant research since the pandemic started. Unlike other viruses, COVID-19 is believed to negatively affect the cells that support the sensory neurons within your nose. This indirect effect can lead to a temporary loss of smell in many patients. The bright side is that, for many, their sense of smell typically returns within several months of recovering from the virus.

How is Anosmia Treated?

Treatment for anosmia depends on its underlying cause. At Pinnacle ENT, our specialists will work closely with you to identify the cause of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Treatment Options:

• Viral Causes: if a viral infection or allergies are causing your anosmia, treatment is usually unnecessary, as these symptoms typically resolve themselves as the infection clears

• Nasal Obstructions: in cases where nasal polyps or tumors are blocking airflow, surgery may be recommended to remove the obstructing tissue, restoring your smell

• Bacterial Infections: if a bacterial infection is the culprit, antibiotics will be prescribed to treat the infection and address symptoms
• Age-Related Anosmia: Unfortunately, the damage may be irreversible for age-related anosmia. In these cases, our team will work with you to manage your condition.

No matter the cause, our specialists are dedicated to providing the best possible care to help you manage or recover from anosmia. At Pinnacle ENT, we offer comprehensive diagnostic treatment services to address the underlying causes of your anosmia and help you recover from its underlying causes.

If you’re experiencing a loss of smell, contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first steps toward recovery.