• Question: I have no sense of smell! Does that have something to do with my brain?

    Asked by elliehow to Tim on 23 Jun 2011.
    • Photo: Tim Fosker

      Tim Fosker answered on 23 Jun 2011:

      Hi @elliehow

      Thanks for the question. You may not be able to smell for two main reasons. It could be that the passage ways in the nose are blocked, but I’m guessing you’ve had that checked. The second is that the system for olfaction (smell) is damaged (you can read more on this system here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olfactory_nerve). It may be difficult to establish where in the brain this damage would have occurred. Sometimes the system doesn’t develop properly and sometimes it can get damaged in an accident where someone hits their head really hard. Have you always been unable to smell?

      I hope this helps answer your question.

Comments

  • Photo: elliehow

    elliehow commented on :

    Thank You,
    I have never been able to smell unfortunately. Its quite weird because i cant smell food, perfume. When i was in science once the teacher let out a horrible smelling gas and it didnt affect me at all?!? and i have never hit my head very badly i dont think x