Growing up, you always hear the question… “If you have to give up your sight, hearing or voice, which would you give up and which would you keep?”. But no one really talks about scent. Most people take their ability to smell for granted as there are no galleries displaying smells like painting or concertos written for noses, yet it’s a really one of the most amazing ability to have.
Anosmia is the medical term for the loss of the sense of smell. Those suffering from it cannot detect scents of any kind. Some people lose their sense of smell due to a wide array of causes, but there are some who were born without a sense of smell. And you’d think, “Why? What’s so bad about losing your sense of smell?”. Well, that’s what I’m here for. Also, if you feel like you’ve suddenly lost your sense of smell, please see your GP. And if you’re wondering how one can lose it (other than being born without a sense of smell), here’s a short list:
- a viral infection affecting the upper respiratory tract, such as a cold
- persistent (chronic) sinusitis, with or without nasal polyps
- a nose abnormality, such as a crooked nose or a nasal septum (wall dividing the nostrils) that isn’t straight
- hay fever (rhinitis) that causes severe inflammation of the nasal passages
- certain medication, including antibiotics such as metronidazole
- diabetes
- liver or kidney disease
…any many others
Now, why is it important? Well, this is where the listicle comes in handy:
- It serves as an important early warning system for the detection of fire, dangerous fumes, leaking gas, and spoiled food. Can you imagine not being able to detect any of those and you live on your own?
- The loss of ability to smell and taste can lead to depression. I mean, 80% of food tastes come from your sense of smell. Imagine not being able to smell your significant other’s perfume, or the smell of books, coffee, flowers, pizza, etc. Heck, if I don’t smell fried chicken once a month, I get depressed. I can’t imagine how it’s like not being able to smell it. Ever.
- It enhances socialization and interpersonal relationships by protecting against objectionable body odors. You’re wondering “…how?”. Well, not going in it too deeply, but your body knows if a person is bad for you. It’s when they smell a certain way, and you can’t explain it, but you just don’t like that smell. Which is why in many cases, it’s very hard to fall for someone whose smell you can’t seem to get over.
- Loss of smell may be a symptom of sinus disease, growths in the nasal passage, or a nervous system disorder.
- Some professions require a keen sense of smell, for example, a chef or a firefighter. Therefore, anosmia can lead to job loss and serious economic hardship.
So what can you/they do? Well, there’s a couple of things they can do to ensure that they’re safe:
- Install multiple smoke alarms in the home. Smoke detectors are a necessity in all areas of the home, especially in the kitchen. They should also have extra fire extinguishers in case of a small fire.
- Use electric appliances instead of natural gas. Gas leaks are usually recognisable by smell and well, anosmic people will never be able to smell it before its too late.
- Mark expiration dates on food clearly. If you’re a leftover-food kind of person, then mark those with throwaway dates, and give special attention to freshness dates.
- Beware of household cleaners as the odour from the chemicals will not be noticed to warn the person that the chemicals are toxic and that it should be used in well-ventilated areas.
- Warning labels should be your best friend, reminding you of the chemicals involved in things like hair products, bathroom and kitchen cleaners, insecticides, etc.
- Send your car for regular check-ups because usually, sense of smell helps keep people aware of automotive troubles.
- Always get the help of friends and family in issues of social concern.
- For patients who are untreatable, counselling is important. These patients need to understand that their disorder is not unique. Support groups are helpful.
The bigger question is, “Can it be cured?”.
Well, it depends on the underlying cause. If you are born with it, there is no known cure or treatment (right now). However, other types of anosmia can be improved or cured when the underlying condition itself is treated, such as if it is caused by swelling in the nose or sinuses, then steroids can usually clear it up. Other treatments can range from nasal washing to antihistamines to even surgery.
So, if you have someone you know suffering from this, please do help them. Happy Anosmia Awareness Day!
