A link found between decreased sense of smell and late-life depression risk. In fact, a study published in the journal Aging and Mental Health found that people who had a decreased sense of smell were more likely to develop depression over the next 10 years than people who had a normal sense of smell. The study also found that the more severe the loss of smell, the greater the risk of developing depression.
The researchers believe that there are a number of reasons why decreased sense of smell could be linked to depression. One possibility is that loss of smell can lead to social isolation. When people can’t smell food, they may lose interest in eating, which can lead to weight loss and malnutrition. They may also avoid social situations where they would normally be exposed to smells, such as cooking or going to the movies. This can lead to loneliness and isolation, which are risk factors for depression.
Another possibility is that loss of smell can disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm. The circadian rhythm is the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. It is regulated by a number of factors, including exposure to light and smell. When people lose their sense of smell, they may be less likely to wake up to the smell of coffee or the sound of an alarm clock. This can lead to sleep deprivation, which is another risk factor for depression.
Finally, loss of smell can also be a sign of underlying health conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease. These conditions are also associated with an increased risk of depression.
If you notice that you have lost your sense of smell, or if you have a decreased sense of smell, talk to your doctor. They can assess your risk of developing depression and recommend preventive measures. There are also some things you can do to improve your sense of smell, such as:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
- Getting enough sleep
- Avoiding smoking and alcohol
- Managing stress
- Using odor therapy
If you have any concerns about your sense of smell, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine the cause of your loss of smell and recommend treatment options.