What Are the Causes of Long-Term Inability to Smell Foot Odor?

Generally, the long-term inability to smell foot odor may be caused by factors such as aging, olfactory adaptation, sinusitis, olfactory nerve damage, or deviated nasal septum. Symptomatic management may involve general treatment, medication, or surgical interventions. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation and undergo appropriate treatment under a physician's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Age-related factors

With advancing age, olfactory function may gradually decline due to weakened olfactory receptor function, resulting in reduced sensitivity to odors. It is recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle and engage in appropriate olfactory training, such as smelling various spices, to help preserve olfactory function.

2. Olfactory adaptation

Olfactory adaptation is a physiological phenomenon wherein the olfactory receptors gradually reduce their response to a constant odor when exposed for prolonged periods, leading the individual to no longer perceive the odor. It is recommended to change the living environment, regularly ventilate indoor spaces, and ensure proper air circulation to avoid prolonged exposure to the same odor.

3. Sinusitis

Sinusitis is primarily caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, which may lead to nasal mucosal swelling, affecting the olfactory conduction pathway and impairing the sense of smell. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as nasal congestion, headache, and facial tenderness. It is recommended to follow a physician's guidance in using medications such as Roxithromycin Tablets, Cefalexin Dry Syrup, and Clindamycin Hydrochloride Tablets for treatment.

4. Olfactory nerve damage

Head trauma or surgery may cause damage to the olfactory nerve, which serves as the neural pathway connecting the olfactory receptors to the brain. Any injury to this nerve can interfere with the transmission of olfactory signals, leading to reduced or lost sense of smell, possibly accompanied by neurological symptoms such as headache and memory impairment. It is recommended to use medications such as Oryzanol Tablets, Mecobalamin Tablets, and Dexamethasone Acetate Tablets under a physician's guidance for treatment.

5. Deviated nasal septum

A deviated nasal septum is a congenital developmental abnormality. This condition alters the airflow pattern within the nasal cavity, impairing the normal diffusion of odor molecules and reducing the ability of olfactory receptors to detect smells. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as nasal congestion, snoring, and headache. It is recommended to undergo surgical interventions such as septoplasty or submucous resection of the nasal septum under medical guidance to improve nasal structure, restore normal airflow, and recover olfactory function.

It is also recommended to include foods rich in vitamins in the daily diet, such as carrots and oranges, which help nourish the nasal mucosa and support olfactory function.