Decreased Smell: Causes and Symptoms
The sense of smell allows us to enjoy life by taking in the sweet aroma of fresh morning air or a cake baking in the oven. But some people experience partial loss of smell as a result of sinus inflammation, chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, or other ENT conditions that affect the olfactory system. The reduced ability to smell is known as hyposmia and is often accompanied by nasal congestion and decreased sense of taste. The highly trained professionals at Cross Timbers ENT provide diagnosis and treatment for partial loss of smell caused by ear, nose, and throat disorders. For your convenience, we offer telehealth and in-person appointments at our three office locations across North Texas. Schedule a visit for yourself or your family member today.
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Diagnosis and Treatment for hyposmia
Your appointment at Cross Timbers ENT will be carried out in a private treatment room. We will learn about your health history and perform a nasal exam to determine the underlying cause of hyposmia. You may be asked to identify samples of several common substances based on their scent. Sometimes, this is done using a scratch-and-sniff test. Your individualized treatment will be based on the root cause of hyposmia, whether you have nasal polyps, deviated septum, chronic sinus infections, or another type of nasal obstruction.
Decreased Smell FAQ
Is a loss of smell accompanied by a loss of taste?
Yes, typically a decreased sense of smell is accompanied by issues with taste. This is because the olfactory area of the nose is responsible for both smell and taste. Thankfully, treating decreased smell can also help to restore your sense of taste.
What are the most common causes of decreased smell?
Some of the most common causes of decreased smell include:
- Sinus infections
- A common cold
- The flu
- Allergies
- COVID-19
Each of these conditions can contribute to the decreased smell and may require further treatment at Cross Timbers ENT.
Can decreased smell go away on its own?
In some cases, such as with the common cold, decreased smell will go away on its own. In other cases, such as with nasal polyps or a nasal deformity, further treatment is needed. During a consultation at our facility, our team will talk with you about the best course of treatment to fully restore your smell.
Improve your sense of smell
If your sense of smell is not functioning the way it should be, the expert team at Cross Timbers ENT can provide an exam and treatment options. Reach out to one of our convenient locations in Midlothian, Mansfield, or Arlington, TX to book an appointment and get the care you deserve.