While smell and taste disorders affect quality of life, they can also be dangerous. Smell disturbances damage the early warning system: toxic fumes, gas, spoiled food, etc. Taste disorders can affect nutrition. It can also harm the immune system and worsen other medical conditions.⠀ ⠀ What are the causes of smell and taste disorders?⠀ ⠀ • Cold or flu, sinus infection or allergies⠀ • Nasal polyps⠀ • Exposure to radiation therapy for head or neck cancer⠀ • Exposure to chemicals⠀ • Some medications⠀ • Smoking⠀ • Head injuries⠀ • Hormonal changes⠀ ⠀ The most common cause of loss of smell is nose and paranasal sinus diseases.⠀ This is followed by upper respiratory tract infections and head trauma.⠀ ⠀ What are the symptoms of smell and taste disorders?⠀ ⠀ • Decreased ability to smell or taste (sweet, bitter, salty, sour…)⠀ • In some cases, normally pleasant tastes or smells can be disturbing.⠀ ⠀ How are smell and taste disorders diagnosed?⠀ ⠀ Chemical stimulation tests and imaging methods are used along with a complete medical history and physical examination.