Anosmia refers to the complete loss of the sense of smell. Later we will see what situations can cause it. It is known not to be a very common condition in adults, although the mildest form of decreased sense of smell, called hyposmia, is. Nor is anosmia very common in newborns – congenital anosmia.
This inability to detect odors not only affects the possibility of enjoying pleasant and pleasant scents, be it the aroma of flowers, a rich perfume, a cup of coffee or a favorite food. It can also put a person in danger due to the inability to detect potentially harmful odors, such as chemicals, gas leaks, or spoiled food.
In addition, the loss of smell also affects the sense of taste. Both senses, that is, smell and taste, interact when distinguishing certain flavors.
In itself, it is not a serious condition, but it may be part of the symptoms of a larger disease. Anosmia, as we will see immediately, alters the quality of life.
Anosmia as a problem
Loss of smell makes it difficult to enjoy some of life’s pleasures, which can lead to frustration, or even depression in some people with anosmia. Ultimately, there is a decrease in the quality of life.
Sometimes it can cause changes in eating habits. This leads to weight loss, sometimes, and eventual malnutrition due to the lack of taste perception in food. The person loses interest in food because they do not perceive its taste.
At the other extreme, you can become overweight. There is also a risk of increased blood pressure due to excess salt added to the diet, in order to add flavor to food.
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