Inability to smell may be a sign of 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 the 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.
Sense of smell may decrease with age
Selçuk Göçmen, stating that olfactory and taste sensations begin to decrease after a certain age, said that in many people over the age of 60, olfactory problems can be seen;he says that olfactory problems can be seen in many people over the age of 60 and that this condition can occur with some brain diseases.
It is stated that the inability to smell can be a symptom of head trauma and tümörs, as well as nöroological diseases such as upper respiratory tract infections, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease and Multiple Sclerosis.
Inability to smell may be a sign of head trauma and tümörün
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 lost in approximately 5–10’percent of trauma patients, Göçmen emphasizes that in these cases, partial recovery can be seen in time, but regular follow-up is important.
Stating that brain tümörs can also cause loss of smell, Göçmen said that olfactory problems caused by nasal congestion should be evaluated by ear, nose and throat specialists.
It is important to evaluate those who have olfactory problems
Stating that people with olfactory problems should be evaluated in detail, Selçuk Göçmen states that special odor tests can be applied according to the patient's smell. If necessary, tomography and magnetic resonance imaging methods can be utilized.
Paying attention to the importance of appropriate treatment planning according to the diagnosis, regular follow-up after treatment and olfactory exercises, Göçmen emphasizes that the olfactory problem should not be seen as a simple complaint.
