Ars Technica
When the ability to smell goes away
Saturday, July 4, 2026
Loss of smell can indicate underlying neurological conditions. Research has identified associations between olfactory dysfunction and diseases including Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and COVID-19. The sense of smell relies on olfactory receptors in the nasal cavity that transmit signals to the brain, and damage to this system or the neural pathways can impair the ability to detect odors. Medical evaluation is recommended for individuals experiencing sudden or prolonged loss of smell to determine the cause.
Original reporting: https://arstechnica.com/science/2026/07/when-the-ability-to-smell-goes-away/
