Ansomia is also known as lack of olfaction. It is a condition wherein the sufferer becomes incapable of sensing and distinguishing between different smells. This condition can be temporary or permanent in nature.

Anosmia is an agonizing disorder that can impair the patient’s ability to smell and tell apart different odors. Imagine being unable to smell your favorite food, perfume or soap?

Individuals who experience an abrupt onset of this disorder tend to loose their appetite as they cannot enjoy the aroma of their food. This disorder can be extremely dangerous because the sufferer becomes incapable of recognizing the smells of a gas leak, fire, contaminated food and body odor which puts them in a very vulnerable position on various occasions. Since this disorder is not seen as a serious or debilitating condition, most of the cases go undiagnosed.

Risk Factor:

Patients diagnosed with anosmia are at an increased risk of developing depression because of their inability to remember any emotionally important smells like those of loved ones or friends. Anosmia can also lead to loss of libido, however this is not applicable to people suffering from anosmia since birth.

Diagnosis:

Anosmia can be diagnosed by using a scratch- n - sniff odor test in the presence of a registered medical practitioner. It can also be diagnosed by using common odors like lemon, vanilla, coffee, cinnamon and grape which cannot be identified by the patient on smelling.

Causes for the development of Anosmia:

One of the most prominent causes for the development of this condition is the death of olfactory neurons located in the nose. Anosmia can also develop due to a brain injury that hinders the normal working of those areas in the brain that process smell. In some cases, anosmia is present from birth. This condition is called congenital anosmia. Anosmia is also an early sign for detection of certain brain diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. Use of certain types of nasal sprays which cause vasoconstriction of the nasal microcirculation might damage the olfactory receptor neurons and result in the development of anosmia. Nasal polyps found in people suffering from allergies and having histories of sinusitis can also cause anosmia. Excessive smoking also leads to loss of the sense of smell causing anosmia. Some people develop anosmia with passing age.

Treatment:

The best way to treat anosmia is by quitting smoking which would help in improving the smell functions.

Physical blockages in the nose can be corrected surgically.

Excessive use of nasal decongestants should be avoided.

Intake of zinc supplements is recommended for the treatment of anosmia