Inability to smell may indicate brain diseases
A problem with smell is a complaint that many people experience and is often perceived as a common occurrence. However, this may also be an early sign of some brain diseases. It is emphasized that a decrease or loss of the sense of smell should not be neglected.
Brain and Neurosurgery Specialist Selçuk Göçmen states that decreased sense of smell, especially in people over the age of 60, may be a symptom of brain diseases such as head trauma and tümör. He states that many people over the age of 60 can have olfactory problems and that this condition can occur with some neurological diseases.
It is stated that the inability to smell can be a symptom of diseases such as head trauma and tümörs, as well as respiratory infections, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease and Multiple Sclerosis.
Impaired smell should not be neglected
Selçuk Göçmen states that the underlying causes of olfactory problems must be investigated. He states that loss of smell may develop due to stretching or rupture of the olfactory nerve after head trauma.
Stating that the sense of smell can be permanently lost in some patients who have suffered trauma, and in some patients, partial loss can be observed over time;Stating that improvement can be seen, Göçmen emphasizes that regular follow-up and patience are important in this process.
Stating that brain tümörs can also cause loss of smell, Göçmen said that odor problems that occur with nasal congestion should be evaluated by ear, nose and throat specialists.
How does the diagnostic process progress?
Stating that people with olfactory problems should be evaluated in detail, Selçuk Göçmen states that special odor tests can be performed according to the patient's smell. If necessary, tomography and magnetic resonance imaging methods can be utilized.
Stating that appropriate treatment planning can be made according to the diagnosis and regular follow-up and olfactory exercises can be performed after treatment, Göçmen emphasizes that the olfactory problem should not be seen as a simple complaint.
