Loss of Smell Treatment in Singapore

Complete anosmia involves the total inability to detect any odours. Patients with this condition cannot smell anything, regardless of the strength or type of odour presented. This type may result from damage to the olfactory nerves or nasal obstruction.

Hyposmia is a reduced ability to smell, in which patients can detect some odours but with diminished sensitivity. Strong scents may be barely perceptible, and subtle fragrances often go unnoticed entirely. This is a form of smell dysfunction.

Some individuals cannot detect certain specific odours while maintaining normal sensitivity to others. This selective smell loss may be genetic and may go unnoticed unless the person is tested for that particular scent.

Parosmia involves distorted smell perception where familiar odours smell different or unpleasant. Coffee might smell like burnt rubber, or favourite foods may have an offensive odour. This condition may occur during recovery from viral infections or head injuries.

Phantosmia causes people to smell odours that aren’t actually present. These phantom smells can range from pleasant to foul and may be constant or intermittent.

• Difficulty distinguishing between similar scents
• Need for stronger seasonings in food
• Reduced enjoyment of meals
• Occasional inability to smell subtle fragrances
• Delayed detection of odours others notice

• Reduction in smell sensitivity
• Inability to detect common household odours
• Loss of taste for many foods (since smell affects taste)
• Difficulty detecting spoiled food
• Concerns about body odour or home cleanliness
• Changes in appetite or food preferences

• Complete inability to smell any odours
• Total loss of food enjoyment
• Depression or anxiety related to smell loss
• Weight loss due to reduced appetite
• Inability to detect dangerous odours (gas, smoke, chemicals)
• Social isolation and reduced quality of life

Smell loss onset varies by cause. Viral infections may cause a sudden onset, whilst age-related decline occurs gradually over the years. Post-traumatic anosmia typically appears after injury.

Nasal corticosteroid sprays can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses, particularly in cases of smell loss due to chronic sinusitis or allergic rhinitis. These medications may help decrease swelling that blocks odour molecules from reaching smell receptors. Regular use as prescribed is essential for potential effectiveness.

Short courses of oral steroids may be prescribed for severe nasal inflammation or when nasal sprays are insufficient. These systemic medications provide anti-inflammatory effects throughout the nasal and sinus tissues. Oral steroids may help improve smell function when inflammation is the primary cause.

Bacterial sinus infections contributing to smell loss may require appropriate antibiotic therapy. The specific antibiotic chosen depends on culture results and suspected pathogens. Improvement in smell may occur as the infection clears and inflammation subsides.

Olfactory training involves repeated exposure to specific scents to help regenerate smell pathways and improve detection abilities. Patients smell different essential oils twice daily over an extended period. This approach shows promise for post-viral smell loss. The therapy requires patience and consistency and has minimal side effects.

When nasal polyps, chronic sinusitis, or structural abnormalities cause smell loss, endoscopic surgery may help restore olfactory function. The procedure aims to remove obstructions and improve sinus drainage whilst preserving smell-related structures. Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, with recovery time varying by individual. Smell improvement may be noticed following recovery.

Nasal polyps directly blocking smell receptors may require removal for potential smell restoration. Modern endoscopic techniques allow polyp removal while preserving surrounding tissues. The procedure may be combined with sinus surgery for comprehensive treatment. Post-operative medical therapy can help prevent polyp recurrence and maintain smell function.

While not all causes of smell loss are preventable, several strategies may help reduce your risk. Protect your nose from trauma by wearing appropriate safety equipment during sports and work activities. Manage chronic sinus conditions promptly with medical treatment to help prevent long-term damage to smell receptors.

Avoid smoking and minimise exposure to toxic chemicals, pollutants, and irritants that can damage olfactory nerves. Practise good hygiene to reduce the risk of upper respiratory infections, including regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals. Maintain overall health through proper nutrition, regular exercise, and the management of conditions such as diabetes that can affect smell. If you work with chemicals, allow adequate ventilation and consistently use protective equipment.