A diminished sense of smell could serve as a crucial predictor for more than 130 different diseases and may even play a causal role in some health conditions, according to a significant new study from the University of East Anglia.
The Overlooked 'Cinderella Sense'
Experts are now advocating for the introduction of routine screening to identify individuals experiencing smell loss. They argue that the medical establishment has historically neglected the sense of smell, treating it as less critical than sight or hearing.
The research paper, published in the journal Clinical Otolaryngology, highlights a significant gap in medical training. The medical profession typically receives little or no education on the topic of smell and taste and their related disorders, according to the study.
Lead researcher Professor Carl Philpott from UEA's Norwich Medical School stated: "A good sense of smell is vital for physical and mental health, and social wellbeing." He described smell as a 'Cinderella sense' that has lagged behind other senses in perceived importance.
Smell Loss as an Early Warning Sign
The study reveals that smell disorders are present in at least 139 different neurological, physical, and inherited conditions. Crucially, research suggests that smell loss may not just be a symptom but could play a causal role, as it often appears early and can predict future health issues.
"Increasing evidence has shown that smell loss is an independent risk factor for neurodegenerative disorders, increased frailty and reduced longevity," Professor Philpott explained.
The medical term for a complete absence of smell is anosmia, while a reduced sense is known as hyposmia. Some people are born without a functioning sense of smell, while others lose it due to chronic conditions like chronic rhinosinusitis, viral infections, or even smoking. In some instances, diseases of the nervous system such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's may manifest after the onset of smell loss.
A Simple Life Hack for Better Nasal Health
The charity SmellTaste, which supports people suffering from smell loss, recommends a straightforward and effective procedure: sinus rinsing.
This simple technique involves sniffing clean salt water into the nostrils to remove debris and help keep the nose and sinuses clean, healthy, and moist. The organisation says it can reduce inflammation, making breathing – and potentially smelling – easier.
The procedure is particularly beneficial for those with sinonasal disorders or allergies, but the charity recommends it for anyone. Many people live in polluted towns and cities or spend time in centrally heated or air-conditioned environments, which can cause nasal congestion.
To perform sinus rinsing, dissolve one flat spoon of salt (canning, pickling, or sea salt – not table salt) and one flat spoon of bicarbonate of soda into one pint of boiled water that has cooled. Using a sinus rinse bottle, neti pot, or even the cup of your hand, sniff the solution up each nostril and let it run out. Repeat this at least three times per nostril.
The research team is calling for an educational awareness campaign on smell health and targeted public health policies to make it a priority. Professor Philpott concluded that the sense of smell should be promoted as an essential pillar of health, as it underpins good nutrition, cognitive function, and psychological resilience.
