How does complete or partial loss of the sense of smell effect quality of life?
 Drs. Thomas Hummel and Steven Nordin of the Smell and Taste Clinic at the University of Dresden Medical School recently completed a white paper for the Sense of Smell Institute entitled “Quality of life in olfactory dysfunction,” that provides a comprehensive review of the recent research on the causes of the loss of the sense of smell and its effect of quality on life.
In it they note that, “loss of olfactory function is frequent. While it frequently goes undetected in most of these patients, and almost all of them continue their social and professional activities, it may severely alter the quality of life of these people.” Problems typically reported are primarily in the areas of safety and eating, but olfactory loss can also produce a feeling of insecurity (for example, as one’s own body odors are no longer perceived).
Click here to access the complete white paper
What is the difference between anosmia and hyposmia? Click here to access a glossary of terms related to smell dysfunction
Where can I go for assessment and treatment of smell loss? Click here to access a list of smell clinics |
