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We Support a Healthier Future - Healthy People 2020

Taste and Smell Disorders

NIHSeniorHealth: Problems with Smell - Frequently Asked Questions

Find frequently asked questions about problems with smell in older adults. Questions cover what impact loss of smell can have on an older person's life, common causes of smell disorders, diagnoses, and more.

Review Date: November 30, 2012

NIH National Library of Medicine - NLM

Find an ENT Physician

Find an otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat physician) by name, location, or speciality in the United States and abroad.

Review Date: January 16, 2013

American Academy of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery

NIHSeniorHealth: Problems with Taste

Loss of taste can cause a loss of appetite, especially in the elderly, which can lead to loss of weight, poor nutrition, weakened immunity, and even death. Learn about causes, prevention, symptoms, and treatment of problems with taste.

Review Date: November 30, 2012

NIH National Library of Medicine - NLM

Smell and Taste

Smell and taste contribute to our enjoyment of life by stimulating a desire to eat. These senses also warn us of dangers, such as fire, poisonous fumes, and spoiled food. If you experience problems in smelling or tasting, see your doctor for help.

Review Date: November 30, 2012

American Academy of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery

Smell Disorders

Smell disorders have many causes, including smoking or a recent illness or injury. Many types of smell disorders are curable, and for those that are not, counseling is available to help people adjust to the problem.

Review Date: November 30, 2012

NIH National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders

Taste Disorders

Many of us take our sense of taste for granted, but a taste disorder can have a negative effect on a person’s health and quality of life.

Review Date: November 30, 2012

NIH National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders