Care for Smell & Taste Disorders at University of Colorado Hospital

Why Choose Treatment for Smell & Taste Disorders at University of Colorado Hospital?

University of Colorado Hospital otolaryngology clinic provides the most up-to-date, sophisticated, and comprehensive approach to the diagnosis and management of nasal and sinus disorders available in the Rocky Mountain region.

What are Smell & Taste Disorders?

The olfactory nerves in the body react to and are stimulated by odors, while the gustatory cells react to food or drink mixed with saliva. Smell and taste disorders disrupt the chemical sensing system in the body and prevent these nerves from transmitting signals to the brain as they should. These disruptions can be caused by:

• Nasal polyps (small masses in the nose)
• Tobacco use
• Radiation therapy for patients with head or neck cancers
• Laryngectomy (a procedure to remove the larynx, or voice box)

Medication can sometimes help improve the sense of taste and smell, as can surgery to remove nasal polyps.