Skip to main content

Having Trouble Tasting and Smelling? This Could Be a Sign of Sinusitis

Do you have trouble smelling or tasting food? If so, you could have sinusitis. This inflammatory condition of the sinuses can be acute or chronic, and it can be caused by a number of factors, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, a low functioning immune system or allergies.

Here at Riviera Allergy Medical Center, Ulrike Ziegner, MD, routinely diagnoses and treats nasal issues. Read on to get a comprehensive guide about sinusitis.

Sinusitis

Sinusitis is a condition in which the tissues lining the sinuses are inflamed. The condition can be acute or chronic. 

Acute sinusitis lasts roughly three weeks and often resolves on its own. Acute sinusitis may occur a few times a year. Chronic sinusitis is long-lasting and tends to linger for more than 8 weeks. This distinction can provide a clue about whether you’re dealing with acute or chronic sinusitis.

Symptoms of sinusitis

Causes of sinusitis

How sinusitis can impact smell and taste

Olfactory receptors are specialized cells that line the upper nasal cavity. They play an important role in your sense of smell and taste. Inhaling or sniffing stimulates olfactory cells that, in turn, transmit information via your sensory nervous system. Because the sinuses surround the nasal cavity, sinus inflammation can affect the olfactory receptors and impair your sense of smell and taste. 

Taste cells and olfactory cells work together to communicate information about what you’re smelling and tasting. And when your sense of smell is diminished, your sense of taste can be affected, too.

How sinusitis can contribute to other health problems

Nasal issues can impact your overall health. Poor airflow can make breathing through your nose difficult and increase your risk of suffering from certain problems, such as sleep apnea, a condition characterized by frequent pauses in breathing during sleep.

Narrowed and clogged nasal passages can also increase your risk of suffering from complications of infection. Furthermore, lasting inflammation can damage the delicate tissues lining your sinuses. Last not least, the brain is in close anatomical vicinity to the sinuses, and an infection could easily spread from the sinuses to the brain, causing meningitis.

Treating sinusitis

Treatment is key in relieving symptoms, such as nasal congestion and diminished taste and smell.

When you visit Riviera Allergy Medical Center for sinusitis, treatment may involve:

Sinusitis that fails to respond to any conventional treatments may require surgery.

If you’re experiencing nasal issues that last more than three weeks, or that go away only to return, it’s time to see a specialist. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with Riviera Allergy Medical Center today.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Three Vaccines You Need This Winter: Flu, COVID-19, and RSV

Three Vaccines You Need This Winter: Flu, COVID-19, and RSV

As the colder months approach, the need for proactive health care becomes paramount. The flu, COVID-19, and RSV are leading concerns during this time of year. Ensuring timely vaccinations is a vital step toward safeguarding your health and wellness.
Is Asthma Life-Threatening?

Is Asthma Life-Threatening?

Asthma may seem like a minor inconvenience, but without proper management, it can escalate into a life-threatening situation. Understanding this risk is vital to protecting your health.
Ways to Manage Your Eczema at Home

Ways to Manage Your Eczema at Home

Eczema is more than just a temporary discomfort; it can impact your day-to-day life. But there's good news — you can manage this stubborn skin condition right at home with the help of an eczema specialist.
My Child Has Terrible Allergies: Can You Help?

My Child Has Terrible Allergies: Can You Help?

Trying to manage your child's sneezing, itchy eyes, or even severe reactions, may leave you feeling discouraged. There's light at the end of this maze, where expert care and a better quality of life await your little one.