So, as our sense of smell and taste becomes less sensitive, food begins to taste more bland. It also means that we are less able to distinguish and identify dangerous smells such as gas escaping into the kitchen, spoiled food in the refrigerator, or the smell of smoke. Research has shown that more elderly people are injured in fire related accidents than any other age group except young children. This may be in part, because seniors do not smell smoke or gas leaks early. Not all decline in smell is age-associated.
Some common illnesses cause a reduction of smell.
For example, allergies or nasal infections can reduce the sense of smell. Head injuries and Alzheimer's disease also damage the section of the brain responsible for olfaction and can cause smell loss. It is important Some disease related problems can be corrected through medications or surgery. The physicians with UCSD's Nasal Dysfunction Clinic specialize in uncovering and treating problems with the nose. Over the years, this caused chronic infections that completely blocked her sense of smell and taste.