Smell Disorders: Causes of Loss of Smell and ENT Solutions

The sense of smell is vital—not just for enjoying flavors and fragrances but also for detecting hazards like smoke, gas, or spoiled food. When your ability to smell diminishes or disappears, it can impact your daily life and safety. At ENTONE Clinic, Bhubaneswar, we help patients understand the causes of smell disorders and provide expert ENT solutions.

What Are Smell Disorders?

Smell disorders, medically known as olfactory dysfunction, occur when your nose or brain cannot properly detect or interpret odors. These disorders can range from partial loss (hyposmia) to complete loss (anosmia).

Common Types:

  • Anosmia – complete loss of smell

  • Hyposmia – reduced sense of smell

  • Parosmia – distorted or altered sense of smell

  • Phantosmia – perceiving smells that aren’t there

Common Causes of Loss of Smell

1. Nasal Blockages

Conditions such as nasal polyps, chronic sinusitis, or a deviated septum can block airflow to the olfactory region, reducing your ability to smell.

2. Infections

Viral infections like colds, flu, or sinus infections can temporarily damage your olfactory nerves. Sometimes, post-COVID smell loss is also a concern.

3. Aging

As we age, the olfactory system naturally declines, causing a gradual reduction in smell sensitivity.

4. Allergies

Allergic rhinitis can inflame nasal tissues, leading to congestion and reduced olfactory function.

5. Neurological Conditions

Rarely, conditions like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, or head trauma can affect the brain regions responsible for smell.

6. Medications and Chemicals

Some medications, chemicals, or smoking can interfere with smell perception.

When to See an ENT Specialist

You should consult an ENT specialist if you experience:

  • Persistent loss or distortion of smell

  • Difficulty detecting odors affecting daily life

  • Recurring sinus infections or nasal blockages

  • Loss of smell accompanied by other ENT symptoms

Early consultation helps in diagnosis, treatment, and sometimes recovery of smell function.

ENTONE Clinic Solutions

At ENTONE Clinic, Dr. Sudipta Ashe provides personalized care for smell disorders. Solutions may include:

  • Detailed nasal and sinus examination

  • Imaging (CT scan) for structural issues

  • Medical management: medications, nasal sprays, or allergy control

  • Surgical interventions for nasal polyps or structural corrections

  • Guidance on smell training therapy for post-viral smell loss

Our goal is to restore or improve your sense of smell while addressing underlying causes.

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Sense of Smell

  • Avoid smoking and prolonged exposure to chemicals

  • Treat nasal allergies promptly

  • Maintain sinus hygiene and avoid prolonged congestion

  • Practice smell training exercises if recommended by an ENT specialist

📍 Contact ENTONE Clinic

Dr. Sudipta Ashe
ENTONE Clinic
5, 26, Acharya Vihar – Jaydev Vihar Road, Square, Acharya Vihar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha – 751013

📞 Phone: +91 98270 01919
📧 Email: sudiptaashe17@gmail.com
🌐 Website: entone.in