The loss of the sense of smell, known as anosmia, can have various causes, with one of the most common being nasal polyposis. This condition is characterized by the development of benign polyps in the nose or sinuses, affecting both smell and taste. Dr. Stella Maris Cuevas, an ear, nose, and throat specialist and allergist, emphasizes that this sensory loss can influence aspects such as memory, emotions, and generate feelings of social isolation and depression.
On World Anosmia Day, which is commemorated on February 27, there is a call to raise awareness about the importance of the sense of smell and its impact on quality of life. Although less known than other sensory disabilities, anosmia can cause significant disorders in emotional well-being and personal safety. Nasal polyposis, besides affecting smell, causes symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, facial pain, and breathing difficulties, which affect daily activities and sleep.
The sense of smell not only allows us to enjoy the aromas and flavors of our surroundings but also serves as a warning function against potential dangers, such as gas leaks or fires. Dr. Cuevas highlights that anosmia affects the ability to enjoy food and drink, equating the intensity of its symptoms with debilitating diseases. Despite this, nasal polyposis is often underdiagnosed, as patients become accustomed to living with their symptoms, ignoring the possibility of specialized medical treatment.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, anosmia manifested as a common symptom among infected patients, although precise statistics are still lacking. Dr. Cuevas notes that, while for some the loss of smell was temporary, for others it is a chronic reality. Before the pandemic, approximately 5% of the global population experienced anosmia, and between 15% and 20% had alterations in the sense of smell.
Experts like Susana de Barayazarra, a specialist in allergy and immunology, explain that nasal polyposis can lead to eating and nutritional problems due to the lack of taste sensation. Dr. De Barayazarra emphasizes the importance of recognizing and treating this condition to improve the quality of life for patients.
