Taste and Smell Disorders

Taste and smell disorders are closely related, common conditions that affect the chemosensation system and may develop as a result of genetic factors, injury, upper respiratory infections or exposure to certain chemicals. Taste and smell disorders can be temporary or permanent, and may include:

• Hypogeusia
• Ageusia
• Dysgeusia
• Anosmia
• Dysosmia
• Hyperosmia

While taste and smell disorders are not serious, they can often affect your daily life and may lead to unpleasant side effects. Treatment for these conditions usually focuses on treating the underlying cause of the condition, while direct treatments may range from simple life changes to surgery. Some cases may improve on their own.