Dysosmia: Causes, Related Conditions, and What You Can Do

When you can’t smell things the way you used to—or worse, when everything smells like burnt plastic or rotten eggs—you’re dealing with dysosmia, a distortion or loss of the sense of smell. Also known as olfactory dysfunction, it’s more than a nuisance. It’s a signal your body is off-balance, and it often links to bigger health issues you might not expect.

Dysosmia doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It’s tied to things like post-viral infections, especially after colds, flu, or COVID-19, which can damage the nerves in your nose. It also shows up with sinus problems, like chronic inflammation or nasal polyps, that block odor molecules from reaching your smell receptors. And here’s something most people don’t realize: dysosmia often comes with taste disturbance, because flavor relies heavily on smell. If food tastes bland or metallic, your nose is probably the culprit, not your tongue.

It’s not just about missing your favorite coffee or perfume. Losing your sense of smell affects safety—you might not smell smoke, gas leaks, or spoiled food. It can also lead to depression, weight loss, or social withdrawal because meals lose their joy. And while some cases clear up on their own, others need real intervention. That’s why the articles below cover everything from how medications like certain antibiotics or blood pressure pills can trigger it, to how conditions like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, or even zinc deficiency play a role. You’ll find real advice on what tests to ask for, what treatments actually work, and when to push back if your doctor dismisses it as "just a cold." This isn’t about guessing. It’s about connecting the dots between your nose and your overall health.