Communication with Anosmic Patients
in: Health Communication in Otorhinolaryngology, NOVA Publications , pp.299-306, 2026
- Publication Type: Book Chapter / Chapter Research Book
- Publication Date: 2026
- Publisher: NOVA Publications
- Page Numbers: pp.299-306
- Keywords: anosmic patients, communication, disorders, smell, taste
- Eskisehir Osmangazi University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
A lack of understanding and information about the senses of smell and taste, and their illnesses, has historically made the diagnosis and treatment of these ailments challenging. Some diseases cause changes in taste or smell as a secondary symptom, whereas others cause them as the main symptom. There is evidence that a loss of smell and/or taste can lead to poor dietary habits, less enjoyment in social situations, and worse mental health. Impairing the ability to smell smoke from a fire or rotten food could potentially be life-threatening. Much of this article is devoted to the sense of smell and how it might be impaired, with supplementary material on taste and associated illnesses. This is because over 80% of taste problems are actually smell disorders.