Understanding Smell & Taste Disorders

Why Smell & Taste Matter

Smell and taste work together to help you enjoy food, detect hazards, and experience your environment. When these senses are disrupted, you may notice:

• Reduced or lost smell

• Altered or metallic taste

• Distorted or phantom smells

Common Causes

• Nasal congestion or sinus inflammation: From colds, allergies, infections, or nasal polyps

• Post-viral changes: Including loss after viral illnesses

• Aging: Natural decline over time

• Head injuries: Affecting nerves involved in smell and taste

• Medications: Certain antibiotics, blood pressure meds, and antidepressants

• Smoking or irritant exposure: Reduces receptor sensitivity

• Structural issues: Deviated septum or enlarged turbinates blocking airflow

When to Seek Help

See an ENT specialist if smell or taste loss:

• Lasts more than 3–4 weeks

• Disrupts appetite or daily life

• Occurs with persistent congestion or sinus pressure

• Causes distorted or unpleasant smells

• Impacts safety (e.g., detecting smoke or gas)

How an ENT Can Help

Evaluation may include an exam, allergy testing, or imaging. Treatment can involve:

• Reducing inflammation with medications or sprays

• Addressing nasal blockages or polyps

• Smell retraining therapy

• Treating sinus disease that affects taste

Most patients experience improvement once the underlying cause is identified.