(NaturalNews) When it comes to senses, eyesight and hearing are typically the ones that receive a great deal of attention.

Articles about techniques to improve eyesight include everything from eating healthier foods to taking computer breaks in order to reduce eye strain.

To protect hearing, people are urged to wear ear plugs in high-decibel situations such as operating a mower or even a high-speed blender. In fact, noise pollution has gained increasing amounts of awareness through the years, with many experts noting the link between a quieter environment and improved health. For example, studies have shown that noise, even from a snoring significant other, can play a role in diminished memory and even increase the risk of heart attack. ⁽¹⁾

Anosmia, the loss of sense of smell that can cause injuries

But what about the health issues that come with a diminished sense of smell, or loss of it altogether? It exists, and it's called "anosmia." While it may not necessarily sound debilitating and seems to be more of a frustrating nuisance, it can actually be life-threatening, as many experts have noted that it can significantly increase the risk of injury in those affected. ⁽²⁾

For example, those with a compromised sense of smell, or those who have lost their sense of it entirely, are not as easily able to detect problematic situations such as gas leaks, burning stovetop foods and spoiled foods that can wreak havoc on their body. ⁽²⁾ It can even lead to malnutrition, since people with an altered sense of smell have a diminished sense of taste, making them less inclined to enjoy meals.

According to researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond who assessed decades' worth of information from their Smell and Taste Disorders Center, those without the sense of smell were at least three times more likely to face health-jeopardizing scenarios than their counterparts who had properly functioning olfactory capabilities. ⁽²⁾

Loss of smell is common during a typical cold or flu; however, if smell is worsened on a regular basis, it may be a sign of a nasal obstruction such as a tumor, bony deformity or polyp. Other causes for a destroyed olfactory sense include changes in the ability for the brain to register information like smells; therefore, conditions like Alzheimer's disease, diabetes and multiple sclerosis can contribute to the condition. ⁽³⁾

It's suggested that medical professionals advise patients with anosmia to stay aware of household matters such as labeling refrigerated foods by date and making sure that smoke detectors are functioning. ⁽³⁾

Sources:

(1) http://www.naturalnews.com

(2) http://www.npr.org

(3) http://www.mayoclinic.org

About the author:
A science enthusiast with a keen interest in health nutrition, Antonia has been intensely researching various dieting routines for several years now, weighing their highs and their lows, to bring readers the most interesting info and news in the field. While she is very excited about a high raw diet, she likes to keep a fair and balanced approach towards non-raw methods of food preparation as well. >>> Click here to see more by Antonia