CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va – UVA Health recently opened a new center for smell and taste disorders aiming to diagnose and treat issues with the senses.
The disorders affect the ability to perceive smells and tastes, or even, make pleasant smells unpleasant. Around twenty percent of the adult population has a smell or taste disorder.
Common causes of smell and taste disorders include viruses including covid-19 chemotherapy, and even allergies.
The disorders can also have strong social impacts.
“You know, eating and drinking are very social events and so if food doesn’t taste right, and people don’t want to engage in those activities, it can be socially isolating,” said Dr. Jose Mattos, and ear nose and throat specialist at UVA Health. “We know that folks who have smell and taste disorders can develop depression or anxiety.”
There are treatment options for the disorders, including diet changes, counseling, and smell retraining therapies.