Olfactory dysfunction is a common problem that affects more than 20 million Americans. As one of the five major senses, olfaction plays an important role in everyday life, such as the identification and enjoyment of safe and nourishing food, maintenance of personal hygiene, and hazard avoidance.
Impaired olfaction can significantly reduce quality of life, and up to one-third of individuals with olfactory disorders suffer from depression. Common causes of olfactory loss include post-viral upper respiratory tract infections (URI), sinonasal disease, head trauma, and medications. In fact, anosmia is one of the most common presenting symptoms of COVID infection.