The inability to detect odors and taste would be problematic for many, and this becomes an issue as one grows old. There is a close connection between the senses of smell and taste. The ability to smell will also have a direct impact on our taste buds. Only a few tastes would be known when the nose is affected.
Causes
In many of the cases, the problem with taste is connected to the respiratory system. The most common condition that would affect the taste and smell would include:
- Cold
- Flu
- Sinus infections
- Throat infections
- Salivary gland infections
- Injury on the nose
- Nasal polyps
- Certain medications
- Drug abuse
- Age
- Radiation and related treatments
- Smoking
- Nutritional deficiency
- Head or ear injuries
- Gum infections
Disorders in the nervous system will also have an impact on the senses of taste and smell. The disorders in the nervous system would affect the nerves and would turn out to be a block in sending messages to the rest of the body. The organs which control the taste will also be affected by nervous impairment.
Medical care
Depending on the condition, the doctor would recommend the treatment. Certain problems such as normal cold and flu cure on its own hence, no medicines would be suggested. Decongestants would be provided for short-term use so that the nasal passages can open up and would help to breathe easily. Medications would be provided for issues such as bacterial sinusitis, throat infections, and salivary gland infections. The doctor would prescribe medicines to treat nervous disorders or autoimmune disease as these could repair the taste buds too.
The doctor would recommend surgery if there are polyps that turn out to be a hindrance to the senses of taste and smell. With surgery, the doctor would remove the polyp and help improve the sense of smell. A healthy lifestyle could also help regain the lost senses to a normal state. Smoking can have an adverse effect on the senses, especially in connection with taste, and it could also dull the sense of smell too. Proper dental hygiene, brushing, and flossing can also bring out a difference orally as it could solve the dental problems that affect the sense of taste. This could eliminate the issues and help regain the senses completely.
Blog reviewed by:Dr. Shailesh Pandey
Mail Us: aumentclinic@gmail.com
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Mail Us: aumentclinic@gmail.com
Book an appointment: aumentclinic.com/book-appointment.php