Inability to smell can be a symptom of tümör
A problem with smell is something that many people experience and is often perceived as a common complaint. However, this may also be an early sign of some brain diseases. It is emphasized that if there is a decrease or loss of the sense of smell, this 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. Stating that one in two people over the age of 60 may have olfactory problems, Göçmen said that this condition may 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.
Not to neglect the problem of smell
Selçuk Göçmen states that the underlying causes of olfactory problems must be investigated. Stating that loss of smell may develop as a result of stretching or rupture of the olfactory nerve after head trauma, Göçmen said that this loss may be permanent in some patients with trauma, while in others, partial recovery may occur over time.
Stating that brain tümörs can also cause loss of smell, Göçmen emphasizes that smell problems due to 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 expresses that special odor tests can be applied according to the patient's "smell". In cases where necessary, tomography and magnetic resonance imaging methods can be used.
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.
