It’s Heck Getting Old: Loss of Taste or Smell

There are many medical conditions — and many medications — that could be the cause of loss of smell or taste, says Dr. Kevin Potts, an ENT with UofL Physicians. Work with your doctor to identify and treat any underlying problems. If there is obstruction to the air flow due to chronic nasal inflammation or nasal polyps, for example, the right treatment can improve or potentially reverse the loss of smell. For loss of taste, your doctor might want to rule out infections such as oral thrush and review any medications you are taking.

P.S. Here are some ways you can upgrade your sense of taste as you age.