Parosmia is a medical term that refers to a condition in which a person experiences a distortion in their sense of smell. The word is spelled P-A-R-O-S-M-I-A, with the stress on the second syllable. The phonetic transcription is /pəˈrɒzmiə/. The prefix "para-" means "abnormal" or "altered," while "-osmia" comes from the Greek word for "smell." Parosmia can occur as a result of various medical conditions or injuries, and it can be associated with other sensory impairments. Treatment for parosmia typically requires addressing the underlying cause.
Parosmia is a medical condition characterized by a distorted sense of smell. It refers to the perception of odors in an abnormal way, where the individual may perceive familiar scents differently or even encounter unpleasant and bizarre smells. This condition can significantly impact one's ability to properly identify and interpret aromas, hindering their overall sense of taste.
When suffering from parosmia, individuals may have difficulty discerning common and easily recognizable smells, such as flowers or food. Instead, these scents may be perceived as foul, putrid, or completely altered, often leading to aversions and the avoidance of certain odors or foods. This alteration in smell perception can be intense and persist for a prolonged period.
Parosmia may arise from various underlying causes, including head injuries, viral infections affecting the olfactory nerves, sinus problems, exposure to toxic chemicals, or as a side effect of certain medications. It can be a temporary condition or, in some cases, become a long-term or chronic issue.
The diagnosis of parosmia is typically made based on the individual's reported symptoms and medical history, with further assessment performed by an otolaryngologist or a specialist in smell disorders. Treatment options can vary depending on the cause and severity of the condition, ranging from managing any underlying health issues to specific smell training techniques aimed at retraining the olfactory system.
Any disorder of the sense of smell especially the subjective perception of odors which do not exist.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "parosmia" has its origin in Greek. It comes from the combination of two Greek words: "para" meaning "abnormal" or "distorted", and "osmē" meaning "smell" or "odor". When combined, "parosmia" refers to a condition characterized by the abnormal perception of smells or distorted sense of smell.