Though many people start to notice a decline in their ability to smell as early as their 40s, the loss usually doesn’t become pronounced until they reach their 60s. In fact, there are many elderly men and women who can’t smell at all.
Severe colds, the flu, and infections of the upper respiratory tract can completely take away your ability to smell. In this instance, as well as when medication is causing the decreased sense of smell, you just have to be patient. When you’re better and/or have discontinued the medication, you’ll be able to smell again. And if you’ve recently had major dental work done, your ability to smell will return after you’ve completely healed.
Occasionally, nasal polyps will result in a loss of smell. If you have trouble breathing due to these obstructions, see your doctor, who will probably recommend surgical removal of the polyps.
If you lose your sense of smell suddenly, it’s important to keep in mind that the condition is probably reversible. If your loss is more gradual, aging is the culprit.
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