Medically Reviewed
동제당한의원·Jang-Hyuk Choi, KMDHead Doctor
#Comorbidities
Q I have lost my sense of smell due to sinusitis; can it be restored?
A The loss of the sense of smell caused by chronic sinus inflammation recovers significantly after the mucosal edema is resolved. However, if the olfactory nerve is damaged due to prolonged neglect, complete recovery may be difficult.
Detailed Answer
Causes of Loss of Smell
- Mucosal Edema Type: Cases where the upper nasal cavity, where the olfactory epithelium is located, is swollen and blocked due to sinus inflammation. 80–90% recovery is possible after the inflammation is resolved.
- Nerve Damage Type: Cases where long-term chronic inflammation directly damages the olfactory nerve (CN I). Recovery is incomplete or takes several months to years. Type accompanied by nasal polyps: Recovery of the sense of smell is possible after polyp removal (surgical or drug reduction). At Dongjedang Korean Medicine Clinic, we view olfactory decline as a result of lung and kidney function deficiency and phlegm stagnation. We support the recovery of the olfactory nerves through herbal medicines that clear nasal congestion to improve sinus circulation, while simultaneously providing kidney-tonifying prescriptions to replenish kidney energy. The likelihood of recovery is higher if treatment is initiated within 3 to 6 months of onset.
Related FAQs
-
Q
I was advised to have surgery. Can Korean medicine treatment be an alternative?
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
-
Q
How are allergic rhinitis and sinusitis treated simultaneously?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
How do I do nasal irrigation, and how many times a day is appropriate?
#Lifestyle Management
-
Q
Is creating the right indoor environment important for managing sinusitis?
#Lifestyle Management
-
Q
Is it safe to take Changija-san or Hyeonggae-yeongyo-tang long-term?
#Safety
#축농증후각상실
#후각저하회복
#부비동염후각
#후각신경손상
#육미지황탕축농증