Loss of Smell & Menopause

The loss of smell can be temporary or permanent. While not a serious condition in itself, the loss of smell affects taste and may lead to loss of appetite, weight loss and depression. There are many causes and menopause is one of them.

Significance

• When a person loses the sense of smell, she can no longer fully taste food. The desire and the enjoyment of eating is greatly diminished. Also, the ability to smell spoiled food, fire, gas or other dangerous orders is prevented.

Considerations

• Aging and many conditions that often come as a person ages can affect smell. Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's, diabetes, Sjogren's syndrome and menopause are just some causes that affect the sense of smell.

Effects

• During menopause women sometimes experience fuzzy thinking, forgetfulness and a loss of concentration. The brain freeze that some women complain of can be responsible for sensory problems including loss of smell.

Atrophic Rhinitis

• Atrophic rhinitis can occur during menopause due to fluctuating hormones. This inflammation in the nose can block passageways and obstruct smell.

Digestive Disorders

• Menopause may also bring about stomach distress and digestive disorders. Nausea and loss of taste and smell often accompany these ailments.

Bleeding Gums

• Bleeding gums and gum problems do occur in menopause. Also burning tongue, bad breath, and a bad taste in the mouth may be present. All can affect smell.