The senses of smell and taste are chemical senses and are combined; Smell is the dominant between the two and many disorders described as impairment in the sense of taste, actually originate from impairment in the sense of smell. It was found that 1% of the population suffers from a significant problem with the senses of smell or taste. Smell and taste disorders can manifest in a partial or complete loss of the sensation, or the distortion of the sensation.

The German Association of Gastroenterology explained that taste and smell disorders have several causes. Suffering from disorders? We have compiled for you all the reasons for this, and how to treat them.

the reasons

Disturbances in the sense of taste and smell can result from the neglect of oral health and poor hygiene; infections such as colds, flu, sinusitis and the corona virus; Infection of the oral mucosa with bacteria or fungi; Nutrient deficiencies such as vitamin B12 deficiency, iron deficiency and zinc deficiency; Damage in nerve cells, diabetes and hypothyroidism.

Also, liver diseases, kidney disease, inflammation and brain tumors, degenerative diseases, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis may also cause taste and smell disorders.

The association also added that a side effect of certain medications such as antidepressants and the effects of surgical procedures or radiation in the head and neck area may also cause sensory disturbances.

The German association emphasized the need to urgently consult a doctor and determine appropriate treatment if a person has one of the symptoms, in order to avoid the risks of smell and taste disorders, which usually lead to weight loss and depression.

The treatment is determined based on the cause revealed through taste and blood tests, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, as well as microscopic examination of tissue samples from the tongue and oral mucosa.

In addition to treatment, one must also observe oral and dental hygiene and avoid nicotine, while chewing gum to stimulate saliva production.