Yes, anosmia is my topic today. What does it mean? Quite simply, it means the inability to perceive smells. When considering the 5 senses, sight and hearing are generally considered the "top two". However, anosmia can be quite debilitating. For many of us, the sense of smell can bring back fond memories of childhood. Anosmia can also interfere with the sense of taste, taking away one of life's simple pleasures. Most of us have experienced temporary anosmia while suffering from colds. Having the probem on a permanent basis would be very depressing. Anosmia can sometimes be caused by a head injury. Some other causes include surgeries, infections, colds, and dental work. Actually, I had a bout with anosmia twenty years ago. It lasted about six months. During that time my sense of taste was virtually nonexistent. However, I didn't lose weight because I continued to stuff my face out of habit. It was miserable. There was no apparent cause, so it was attributed to psychological factors. (I had just lost my father).
Anway, many cases of anosmia are treatable. Some cases are successfully treated with antibiotics. Other anosmics have tried natural remedies such as zinc and lutein. There is an Anosmia Foundation located in Canada. Their web address is www.anosmiafoundation.org
You will also find links to other anosmia related sites there. Hopefully, whatever the cause, there will be a cure for anosmia. Everyone should have the ability experience the basic pleasures in life.
