Post-Surgery Complications: Addressing Olfactory Loss After ENT Surgery

Q: Post-Surgery Complications: Addressing Olfactory Loss After ENT Surgery

Mr. <br>Rock： After surgery for hypertrophic rhinitis, most patients are quite satisfied with the results, as the procedure involves the removal of the hypertrophied nasal mucosa within the nasal cavity. <br>However, you mentioned that you are gradually experiencing nasal congest

Postoperative sequelae?

Hello Doctor: Since I underwent surgery for hypertrophic rhinitis at the Kaohsiung Armed Forces General Hospital over a year ago, I have gradually experienced a return of nasal congestion, and my sense of smell has diminished significantly.
As I work in aircraft maintenance, I am unable to detect even volatile chemical solvents that have a strong and nauseating odor.
What should I do?

shi yan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/04/14

Dr. Chen Junliang reply Otolaryngology

Mr.
Rock: After surgery for hypertrophic rhinitis, most patients are quite satisfied with the results, as the procedure involves the removal of the hypertrophied nasal mucosa within the nasal cavity.
However, you mentioned that you are gradually experiencing nasal congestion and a decrease in your sense of smell.
The most likely reason for this is that you have not actively returned for follow-up visits for local treatment after the surgery, leading to the accumulation of crusts and secretions in the nasal passages that have not been cleared.
Generally, it takes about one to two months for complete recovery.
I recommend that you return for a follow-up examination to determine if this is the cause of your symptoms.

Reply Date: 2001/04/14

More Info

After undergoing surgery for hypertrophic rhinitis, it's not uncommon for patients to experience changes in their olfactory function, including a significant reduction in the ability to smell. This condition, known as hyposmia or anosmia (the complete loss of smell), can be distressing, especially for someone in a profession where olfactory senses are crucial, such as aircraft maintenance, where detecting chemical odors is important for safety.

First, it's essential to understand that olfactory loss can occur due to various reasons, including surgical trauma to the olfactory nerve, inflammation, or changes in the nasal anatomy post-surgery. In your case, since it has been over a year since the surgery, it is advisable to consult with an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) who can evaluate your condition more thoroughly.

Here are some steps you can take to address your olfactory loss:
1. Follow-Up Consultation: Schedule an appointment with your ENT specialist. They may perform a nasal endoscopy to assess the nasal passages and the condition of the olfactory nerve. This examination can help determine if there are any obstructions or other issues that could be contributing to your loss of smell.

2. Olfactory Training: Some studies suggest that olfactory training can help improve the sense of smell. This involves regularly exposing yourself to a set of distinct scents (such as rose, lemon, clove, and eucalyptus) and trying to identify them. This practice can stimulate the olfactory pathways and may lead to improvements over time.

3. Nasal Corticosteroids: If inflammation is a contributing factor, your doctor may prescribe nasal corticosteroids to reduce swelling in the nasal passages, which can help improve airflow and potentially restore some olfactory function.

4. Avoid Irritants: Since you mentioned working with volatile chemicals, it's crucial to minimize exposure to irritants that could further damage your olfactory function. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensure proper ventilation in your work environment.

5. Nutritional Support: Some research indicates that certain nutrients, such as zinc and vitamin A, may play a role in olfactory function. Discuss with your healthcare provider whether supplementation might be beneficial for you.

6. Consider Other Causes: If your olfactory loss persists, it may be worthwhile to explore other potential causes, such as neurological conditions or chronic sinusitis, which could also affect your sense of smell.

7. Patience and Monitoring: Recovery of olfactory function can take time, and in some cases, it may not fully return. Regular monitoring of your symptoms and maintaining communication with your healthcare provider is essential.

In conclusion, while olfactory loss post-surgery can be frustrating, there are steps you can take to potentially improve your situation. Consulting with a specialist and exploring options like olfactory training and medical treatments can provide you with a clearer path forward. Remember that recovery can vary greatly among individuals, and ongoing support from your healthcare team is vital.

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