Severe Allergies: When Nasal Congestion Affects Taste and Smell

Hello, Dr. Hu?

Dr.
Hu: I have severe allergies; whenever I inhale dust or pollen, I start to have a runny nose and then nasal congestion.
It also happens with seasonal changes when the weather gets cooler.
Every time I visit the doctor, they say it's sinusitis...
I just get a nasal spray and some medication, but it only addresses the symptoms and not the root cause.
I've seen both Western and traditional Chinese medicine, but nothing has worked.
Now I've noticed that I can't taste or smell much; I can only detect a little bit of scent, and the same goes for food.
This has been very distressing, and the symptoms have persisted for almost two months.
Previously, when I consulted a doctor, they said it was just a cold, but I've never experienced these symptoms before.
In the past, I would only have nasal congestion with a cold, but I never had issues with smell or taste.
Dr.
Hu...
what is happening to me? Could there be a problem with my olfactory function or something wrong in my brain?

Xiao Wei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/10/27

Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology

Hello, in response to your question, a decrease in olfactory function can indeed affect taste perception.
It is advisable for you to undergo a thorough examination as soon as possible to clarify whether the olfactory impairment is caused by nasal congestion, dysfunction of the olfactory nerve, or other reasons, so that appropriate treatment can be initiated based on the underlying cause.

Reply Date: 2010/10/27

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your severe allergies and the associated symptoms of nasal congestion, loss of taste, and smell. It’s understandable to feel anxious about these issues, especially when they persist for an extended period. Let’s delve into the relationship between nasal congestion, allergies, and the senses of taste and smell.

Firstly, your symptoms suggest that you may be experiencing a condition known as anosmia, which is the loss of the sense of smell. This can often occur in conjunction with nasal congestion, particularly when it is caused by allergies or sinusitis. When your nasal passages are inflamed and congested due to allergens like dust or pollen, the airflow to the olfactory receptors (the smell receptors located in the nasal cavity) is obstructed. This obstruction can lead to a diminished ability to smell, which in turn affects your sense of taste, as much of what we perceive as taste is actually derived from our sense of smell.

In your case, the chronic nasal congestion and the frequent episodes of rhinitis (inflammation of the nasal mucosa) due to allergies can lead to a condition called rhinosinusitis. This condition can cause swelling and blockage of the sinus openings, leading to a buildup of mucus and pressure, which can further impair your ability to smell and taste. It’s also worth noting that prolonged nasal congestion can lead to changes in the mucosal lining of the nasal passages, potentially causing further issues with olfactory function.

You mentioned that you have been experiencing these symptoms for nearly two months, which is concerning. While it’s common for allergies to cause temporary changes in smell and taste, persistent symptoms warrant further investigation. It’s crucial to rule out any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms, such as chronic sinusitis or nasal polyps, which can also obstruct airflow and affect your senses.

In terms of treatment, it’s essential to address the underlying allergic reactions. This may involve avoiding known allergens, using antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, or saline nasal rinses to reduce inflammation and clear mucus. If you haven’t already, consider consulting with an allergist who can perform specific tests to identify your triggers and recommend a tailored treatment plan.

Additionally, if your symptoms do not improve with standard treatments, it may be beneficial to see an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can conduct a thorough examination, possibly including imaging studies like a CT scan, to assess the condition of your sinuses and nasal passages. This can help determine if there are any anatomical issues or chronic infections that need to be addressed.

Lastly, while it’s natural to worry about the potential for neurological issues when experiencing changes in smell, it’s important to remember that in most cases, anosmia related to allergies or sinus issues is not indicative of a serious brain problem. However, if you experience additional symptoms such as headaches, vision changes, or neurological deficits, it would be prudent to seek immediate medical attention.

In conclusion, your symptoms are likely related to your severe allergies and nasal congestion, which can significantly impact your sense of smell and taste. I encourage you to pursue further evaluation and treatment options to help alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Remember, you are not alone in this, and with the right approach, there is hope for recovery.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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