Expert Evaluation and Treatment for Loss of Smell (Anosmia) in Atlanta

What Is Anosmia (Loss of Smell)?

Loss of smell, medically known as anosmia, occurs when your ability to detect odors is significantly reduced or completely absent. Your sense of smell is vital—not only for enjoying food and drink, but also for safety (detecting smoke, gas or spoiled food) and emotional well-being.

When smell loss persists, it is often a signal of an underlying nasal, sinus or neurologic condition. At the practice of Dr. Pablo Stolovitzky, we specialize in the comprehensive evaluation of smell disorders, helping patients in the Metro Atlanta area find answers and effective treatment.

Common Causes of Loss of Smell

The most frequent cause of anosmia is physical: inflammation or a structural blockage that prevents odor molecules from reaching the olfactory nerves at the top of the nasal cavity.

Nasal and Sinus Causes:

• Chronic Sinusitis: Long-term inflammation of the sinus lining.
• Nasal Polyps: Noncancerous growths that can physically block the airway.
• Allergic Rhinitis: Swelling caused by environmental triggers.
• Structural Obstruction: A severely deviated septum or enlarged turbinates.

Other Potential Causes:

• Viral Infections: Including the flu and COVID-19.
• Neurological Conditions: Early-stage Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to harsh chemicals or toxins.
• Aging: A natural, gradual decline in sensory function.

Because the causes range from simple inflammation to complex neurological issues, a persistent change in your sense of smell should always be evaluated by a rhinology specialist.

COVID-19 and Persistent Smell Loss

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted how viruses can disrupt sensory function. Research indicates that the virus often affects the supporting cells around the olfactory nerves rather than the nerves themselves. While many patients recover naturally, others experience “parosmia” (distorted smells) or a long-term loss of smell. Dr. Stolovitzky provides specialized care for “long-COVID” sensory issues, exploring therapies to encourage nerve recovery and reduce local inflammation.

How We Evaluate Your Sense of Smell

An accurate diagnosis is the first step toward recovery. During your consultation in our Atlanta, Decatur or Snellville offices, Dr. Stolovitzky may perform:

• Nasal Endoscopy: Using a high-definition camera to check for polyps, infection or anatomical blockages.
• Imaging Studies: Such as a low-dose CT scan to visualize the deep sinus passages.
• Olfactory Testing: Specific tests to measure the degree of smell loss.

Treatment Options for Anosmia

Treatment is highly personalized based on the root cause identified during your evaluation:

• Medical Therapy: Targeting inflammation with specialized nasal sprays, rinses or oral medications.
• Surgical Intervention: If nasal polyps or structural issues are found, minimally invasive surgery (such as endoscopic sinus surgery) can often restore the pathway for odor molecules.
• Smell Retraining Therapy: A non-invasive method used to “re-wire” the brain’s connection to specific scents.

Why Choose Dr. Pablo Stolovitzky?

Loss of smell can be isolating and frustrating. As a nationally recognized expert in rhinology and sinus surgery, Dr. Stolovitzky combines decades of clinical experience with the latest diagnostic technology. His goal is to provide a compassionate environment where patients receive a precise diagnosis and a realistic, evidence-based treatment plan.