Related Conditions

How Much Do You Know About Taste and Smell?

Smell and taste problems can have a big impact on your life. These 2 senses contribute a lot to your enjoyment of life, your desire to eat, and be social. Because of this, smell and taste disorders can be serious.

1. People are able to sense 4 main types of tastes: sour, sweet, salty, and bitter.


2. You are able to recognize a taste through your sense of smell.


3. Taste disorders are more common than smell disorders.


4. All taste and smell disorders are caused by injury or illness.


5. Hormones can affect your taste and smell.


6. Most healthcare providers diagnose smell disorders by using a scratch and sniff test.


7. Losing your sense of smell or taste can be annoying, but it doesn't pose any risks.


8. Losing your sense of smell or taste can be an early warning sign of more serious illness.


Author: Sinovic, Dianna

Online Medical Reviewer: Jothi, Sumana, MD

Online Medical Reviewer: Novick, Tara, BSN, MSN

Online Medical Reviewer: Sather, Rita, RN

Date Last Reviewed: 01/01/2023

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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