Im a healthy 40 year old female who is recovering from what I would describe as a prolonged cold [approx. 3 weeks]. Approximately 10 days ago, I noticed I was unable to smell, but didn't think much of it because I was still really congested. I used vicks vapor rub and otrivin for relief. I used the otrivin once per day for about 4 days. I was able to breathe better but still could not smell a thing. Went to doctor and was prescribed steroid nose spray (avamys) which I've been taking for almost a week. Brief whiffs of scent but that's it. No history of sinusitis/allergies. Very concerned as there appears to be no justification for the loss. Nose still runny and I continue to have a cough, but I am generally able to breathe and was hoping to be able to smell more by now.

I am doing a case study on loss of smell if anyone would be willing to share there story with me please contact me at salley@student@sierra.edu. Thank you!

can prolonged inhalation of paints cause anosmia

I lost my sense of smell and taste about 7 years ago. It was very gradual and I realised something was wrong when i opened up a bottle of perfume. Eventually I did see Dr. Richard Doty at the University of Pennsylvania who confirmed that I had lost both senses. I had had an MRI and CAT Scan also. Dr. Doty came to the conclusion that my many sinus infections treated with anti-biotics, a bad case of the flue and pneumonia the following year - the latter treated with more anti-biotics were the probable causes. I have recetnly begun to read more on the condition and have seen the support groups. I agree, it is very debilitating. I lost interest in so many things and although people seem supportive, they really have no idea of the effect it has on one's life. I hate to complain about it as things could be much worse, but the longer it goes on, the worse I feel about it.