Nearly one in four people experience some degree of smell impairment by their early 50s. After the age of 80, this figure rises to more than half. Losing the ability to smell properly can significantly impact quality of life. It can hinder essential daily functions and heighten health risks.
We often associate this loss of sense of smell with our olfactory processes, at times overseeing its deep rooted neurological basis by associating the former with a flu, or other such ailments. The last thing that one would suspect would be something as concerning as a neurological disorder, however, after knowing that loss of sense of smell has been linked to over 100 diseases, you may want to reframe your thoughts. To better understand this link, we at OnlyMyHealth spoke to Dr Anshu Rohatgi, Vice-Chairperson, Neurology, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi.
RELATED: Loss of Smell Linked To Altered Breathing Patterns, New Study Finds
What Does Research Say About the Link Between Smell and Neurological Diseases?
Olfactory dysfunction, often dismissed as minor, may be an early sign of neurological and other health conditions. Studies suggest that losing your sense of smell is a strong indicator of cognitive decline and can predict neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
Research also highlights the potential benefits of olfactory stimulation, such as exposure to pleasant scents. Findings suggest that olfactory enrichment can enhance memory and reduce brain inflammation, which may improve overall brain health.
Do Experts Corroborate This Link?
Dr Rohtagi confirms that smell dysfunction is a critical early indicator of neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. “This often predicts the motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease several years prior and can be one of the earliest neurological symptoms of disease onset. It is also a sign of neurological disease progression”, he notes.
“In Parkinson's disease, it is believed that smell loss can occur almost four years before other symptoms begin to surface and this is linked to decreased olfactory bulb volume and alpha-chemically in protein deposition in the olfactory tracts”, says our expert. He further explains that in Alzheimer's too, it is believed that approximately 90% of the patients experience olfactory dysfunction.
Why Is It Imperative To Get An Olfactory Testing Done?
Our expert explains that olfactory testing can sometimes be helpful in determining the early stages of Parkinson's dementia, especially in patients who have a family history of these diseases.
An olfactory dysfunction test can predict symptoms that may manifest years later, setting the path for early management of symptoms to slow the progression of these neurodegenerative diseases.
What Links Smell Loss To Neurological Diseases?
While the exact biological mechanisms remain unclear, anatomical systems and environmental factors are believed to contribute to the connection between smell loss and neurological diseases. Studies suggest that individuals with both smell loss and genetic risk factors are 5-10 times more likely to develop neurodegenerative disorders.
Olfactory testing is, therefore, an important tool for assessing cognitive and motor function in Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s patients, aiding in early diagnosis and potentially improving treatment outcomes.
RELATED: Hyperosmia: What's Causing Your Heightened Sense Of Smell?
Stay Wary, Don’t Ignore Your Sense Of Smell
Research and expert insights highlight how important your sense of smell is as an early marker of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Smell loss may precede noticeable symptoms by years, making way for early detection and management.
If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent olfactory dysfunction, seeking medical advice and considering olfactory testing can help you or your loved one steer clear of a potential delay in diagnosis.