Taste and Smell Disorder Treatment
We Specialize in Taste and Smell Disorders
Smell and taste disorders affect millions of people and can make eating less enjoyable. The good news is that help is available. SoCal Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers offers expert care for these conditions at our clinic in Burbank, CA. We’re committed to evaluating the cause of your symptoms and offering treatment options that may improve your sense of taste and smell.
We understand how important these senses are for enjoying a good quality of life, so we’ll use the latest methods to help improve or manage your symptoms. Our team will take the time to understand your specific symptoms and medical history to create a treatment plan that works best for you.
What Are Smell and Taste Disorders?
Taste disorders happen when your sense of taste changes or goes away. You might not be able to taste sweet, salty, sour, or bitter flavors. Some people notice that all food tastes the same or has a strange flavor.
Smell disorders affect your ability to detect odors. You might lose your sense of smell completely or smell things that aren’t there. You may also find that familiar scents smell different from how they did before.
Sense of taste disorders and sense of smell disorders often happen simultaneously because the senses work closely together. When you eat, your nose helps you taste food. Therefore, if your sense of smell is affected, your sense of taste usually changes, too.
What Causes Taste and Smell Disorders?
Many things can cause smell and taste disorders, with common causes including:
- Viral Infections – A cold or flu can damage the nerves that control taste and smell. COVID-19 has also been linked to these disorders.
- Sinus Problems – Chronic sinusitis or nasal polyps can block smell receptors, making it hard to smell and taste properly.
- Medications – Some antibiotics and blood pressure drugs can affect your senses.
- Head Injuries – Trauma can damage nerves affecting taste and smell.
- Aging – Your sense of taste and smell will naturally decrease as you age.
- Allergies – Allergies can cause swelling that blocks your sense of smell.
- Dental Problems – Poor oral hygiene can affect your sense of taste.
Are Taste and Smell Disorders Always Permanent?
Not all taste and smell disorders are permanent. Many people recover their senses over time, but the cause of your disorder will affect how likely you are to get better.
If a cold or sinus infection caused your problem, your senses may return as you heal. This can take weeks or months. Additionally, some medications can be changed or stopped to restore your senses.
However, some conditions can cause lasting changes. Age-related loss may not improve, and severe nerve damage might be permanent. But even in those cases, treatment can sometimes be beneficial.
Treatment Options for Smell and Taste Disorders
Several treatments can help with these disorders. The best option will depend on what’s causing your problem.
- Medical Treatment – Addressing underlying conditions is often the first step. If allergies or sinus problems are the cause, treating these issues may restore your senses. Options include allergy medications or sinus surgery.
- Smell Training – This proven method for improving smell disorders involves smelling strong scents like lemon, rose, clove, and eucalyptus twice daily. Many patients see improvement after several weeks of training.
- Nasal Rinses – Saltwater rinses remove mucus and irritants that might affect your smell.
- Steroid Treatments – Steroids, which can be taken as nasal sprays or pills, may reduce inflammation in the nose and sinuses.
- Zinc Supplements – Some studies suggest zinc may support smell recovery, but results are mixed. Always consult your doctor before starting supplements.
- Surgery – You may need surgery if nasal polyps or other structural problems are blocking your sense of smell.
Risks and Side Effects of Treatment
Most treatments for taste and smell disorders are safe. However, all treatments can have side effects. Our doctors will discuss the risks and benefits of each treatment option with you to help determine the safest and most effective approach. Risks and side effects may include:
- Nasal rinses are very safe when done properly. However, using the wrong type of water or too much salt can cause irritation.
- Steroid nasal sprays can cause nosebleeds or dryness in some people. Long-term use of steroid pills can have more serious effects.
- Surgery carries risks like bleeding or infection, but these are rare when performed by experienced doctors.
- Supplements can counteract other medications. Always tell your doctor about any supplements you take.
Contact Us Today to Restore Your Senses
Don’t let taste and smell disorders affect your quality of life. The specialists at SoCal Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers in Burbank will work with you to find the cause of your disorder and offer comprehensive treatment for your condition. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.