Glossary
A chemosensory disorder, also known as chemosensory dysfunction, is a condition that affects a person's ability to detect, interpret, or perceive chemical stimuli, primarily related to taste (gustation) and smell (olfaction). These senses are collectively referred to as chemosensory systems.
Chemosensory disorders can manifest in various ways, such as a reduced or complete loss of taste or smell (hypogeusia, ageusia, hyposmia, or anosmia), distorted perceptions of taste or smell (dysgeusia or parosmia), heightened sensitivity to odors (hyperosmia), or olfactory hallucinations (phantosmia).
These disorders can result from various factors, including viral infections (e.g., COVID-19), head trauma, certain medications, exposure to toxins, neurodegenerative diseases, nasal or sinus conditions, and aging.
Chemosensory disorders can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, affecting their ability to enjoy food, detect potential dangers (e.g., gas leaks or spoiled food), and experience the full range of sensory experiences.
Anosmia
Complete loss of the sense of smell.
Ageusia
Complete loss of the sense of taste.
Dysgeusia
Distorted or altered perception of taste, leading to unpleasant tastes.
Hyperosmia
An increased sensitivity to smells, causing heightened olfactory perception.
Hypersomia
A heightened sense of taste, resulting in an increased ability to detect flavors.
Hyposmia
Partial loss of the sense of smell, resulting in reduced sensitivity to odors.
Hypogeusia
Reduced sensitivity to taste, causing a decreased ability to detect flavors.
Parosmia
A condition where odors are perceived differently than they actually are, often resulting in unpleasant or distorted smells.
Phantosmia
Olfactory hallucinations where a person smells odors that are not present.
Taste agnosia
A condition in which a person cannot recognize or identify taste sensations.
Treatment for chemosensory disorders depends on the underlying cause and may involve addressing any reversible factors, medication adjustments, or specific therapies aimed at improving or managing the condition.
If you suspect you or someone else has a chemosensory disorder, it is essential to seek medical evaluation by an otolaryngologist or a healthcare professional specializing in smell and taste disorders to determine the cause and appropriate management.
#DeliciousForAll is here to generate awareness, encourage empathy, and cultivate a more inclusive dining landscape that embraces the unique experiences and challenges faced by individuals with taste and smell impairments.
World Taste & Smell Day Association (WTSDA) is supported by industry leaders and passionate peer volunteers like you.
The World Taste & Smell Association is continuously seeking volunteers, sponsors, and partners to collaborate with us for local, digital, and regional events, as we aim to further our mission. We invite you to connect with us and discover the numerous opportunities available for your involvement. Together, we can make a difference!
