Altered Taste and Nasal Symptoms: Possible Causes and Solutions

Change in taste?

Dear Doctor: This symptom has been present for nearly two months.
Some things have started to taste strange, all turning into the same foul odor, and I am unsure of the cause.
Sometimes, the same smell is also in the air.
I visited a clinic, and after examining my nose, the doctor said there was no issue.
When I asked why this was happening, the doctor replied that it might be due to some purulent matter inside??? Last September, I had a cold for two weeks during which I couldn't smell anything, but once the cold resolved, I started to notice the smell.
Could that cold from so long ago be the cause of this symptom? I have not experienced any injuries or sinusitis.
I consulted with traditional Chinese medicine; one doctor believed it was an endocrine metabolic issue, while another thought it was nasal allergies.
I also went to a hospital where the doctor suggested it might be a neurological problem.
I really don't know what the issue is, or if this condition is untreatable, which is quite distressing.
Additionally, I would like to ask the doctor: when I breathe in cold air or very cold air conditioning, I experience a runny nose, and sometimes I also have nasal pain.
When my nose hurts, my eyes feel uncomfortable too.
Occasionally, I get so congested that I feel like I can't breathe, leading to headaches.
Sometimes my nose itches.
Previous doctors have said it is nasal allergies, but I don't have the typical symptoms of someone with allergies, such as frequent sneezing and a runny nose.
Does this still count as nasal allergies?

lan tian, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/02/28

Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology

Hello, your symptoms seem to be related to an allergy.
Whether there are complications arising from the allergy will require further examination.
Hooke's law.

Reply Date: 2006/02/28

More Info

Altered taste and nasal symptoms can be quite perplexing and distressing, as you've described in your situation. Based on the symptoms you've shared, it seems that you are experiencing a combination of altered taste perception (dysgeusia) and nasal issues, which may be interconnected. Let's explore the potential causes and solutions for these symptoms.

Possible Causes of Altered Taste and Nasal Symptoms
1. Post-Viral Syndrome: You mentioned having a cold last September, which could have triggered a post-viral syndrome. Viral infections can sometimes lead to lingering symptoms, including altered taste and smell. This is due to the impact on the olfactory and gustatory nerves, which can take time to recover after a viral infection.

2. Nasal Congestion and Inflammation: Chronic nasal congestion, whether due to allergies or other factors, can lead to a condition known as nasal obstruction. This can affect your ability to taste properly, as much of what we perceive as taste is actually related to our sense of smell. If you have inflammation in your nasal passages, it could lead to a distorted perception of flavors.

3. Sinusitis: While your doctor mentioned that there was no issue with your nasal passages, it’s worth considering that you might have a mild form of sinusitis that hasn’t been fully diagnosed. Sinus infections can lead to altered taste and smell, as well as nasal pain and pressure.

4. Neurological Factors: As suggested by one of the physicians you consulted, there could be a neurological component to your symptoms. Conditions affecting the nervous system can lead to changes in taste and smell. This could be due to nerve damage or dysfunction, which may not always be apparent through standard examinations.

5. Allergic Rhinitis: You mentioned experiencing symptoms like nasal pain and discomfort when exposed to cold air or air conditioning. This could indicate allergic rhinitis, which can cause inflammation in the nasal passages and lead to symptoms like nasal congestion, altered taste, and even headaches.

6. Metabolic or Endocrine Issues: The suggestion from the traditional medicine practitioner regarding metabolic or endocrine issues could also be valid. Conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disorders can sometimes lead to changes in taste perception.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Consult an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Specialist: Since your symptoms have persisted for two months, it would be beneficial to see an ENT specialist for a thorough evaluation. They may perform additional tests, such as imaging studies or a nasal endoscopy, to assess for any underlying issues that may not have been detected previously.

2. Nasal Irrigation: Regularly using saline nasal sprays or performing nasal irrigation can help clear out mucus and allergens from your nasal passages, potentially improving your sense of smell and taste.

3. Allergy Management: If allergies are suspected, consider discussing allergy testing with your healthcare provider. Identifying specific allergens can help in managing your symptoms more effectively, possibly through avoidance strategies or medications like antihistamines.

4. Taste and Smell Training: Engaging in smell and taste training exercises can sometimes help retrain your senses. This involves regularly exposing yourself to strong flavors and scents to help stimulate your olfactory and gustatory systems.

5. Monitor Environmental Factors: Pay attention to your environment, especially when exposed to cold air or strong odors. Keeping your living space well-ventilated and avoiding irritants can help reduce nasal symptoms.

6. Follow-Up on Neurological Assessment: If your symptoms do not improve, consider following up with a neurologist to rule out any neurological conditions that could be affecting your taste and smell.

Conclusion
Altered taste and nasal symptoms can arise from a variety of causes, including post-viral effects, sinus issues, allergies, and potential neurological factors. It is essential to work closely with healthcare professionals to identify the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. By addressing both the nasal symptoms and the altered taste perception, you can work towards regaining your normal sensory experiences and improving your overall quality of life.

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