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What Causes Sudden Loss Of Sense Of Smell?

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Posted on Thu, 2 Feb 2017
Question: a I am a family physician for 35 years. Abrupt loss of smell 3 months ago accept I smell one thing and that smell is horrible and only happens with volatile substances. Normal sinus scope and normal MRI olfactory sulcus. Stool is odorless no drugs no psychosis no epilepsy no other symptoms no Parkinson's 65 years old very sharp mentally no physical problems can't smell gas leak can't smell smoke can't smell perfume. Used to have a wonderful sense of smell now miserable any ideas thank you
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Other conditions to consider listed below.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your question and understand your concerns.

Since MRI and direct scope of sinuses resulted normal, conditions such brain aneurysms, tumors, sinusitis, nasal polyps etc. are excluded as possible causes.

If you use medications ( such high blood pressure drugs for example ), this may be a possible cause.

Other conditions to consider in your case include chemical exposure to insecticides or solvents, low blood zinc levels, thiamine deficiency.

Less likely conditions since there are no other symptoms are multiple sclerosis, Sjögren's, diabetes.

I think you should get evaluated further about above mentioned conditions.

Using vitamins B complex may help in some degree restore the olphactory function.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Kind regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho

Neurologist, Surgical

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 4502 Questions

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What Causes Sudden Loss Of Sense Of Smell?

Brief Answer: Other conditions to consider listed below. Detailed Answer: Hello and thanks for using HCM. I have read your question and understand your concerns. Since MRI and direct scope of sinuses resulted normal, conditions such brain aneurysms, tumors, sinusitis, nasal polyps etc. are excluded as possible causes. If you use medications ( such high blood pressure drugs for example ), this may be a possible cause. Other conditions to consider in your case include chemical exposure to insecticides or solvents, low blood zinc levels, thiamine deficiency. Less likely conditions since there are no other symptoms are multiple sclerosis, Sjögren's, diabetes. I think you should get evaluated further about above mentioned conditions. Using vitamins B complex may help in some degree restore the olphactory function. Hope you found the answer helpful. Let me know if I can assist you further. Kind regards.