Why can’t most people smell or taste when they have a sinus infection? What blocks these senses?

Human Biology (MindTap Course List)
11th Edition
ISBN:9781305112100
Author:Cecie Starr, Beverly McMillan
Publisher:Cecie Starr, Beverly McMillan
Chapter14: Sensory Systems
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 3RQ: How do somatic sensations differ from special senses?
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Why can’t most people smell or taste when they have a sinus infection? What blocks these senses?

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Inflammation of mucous membrane lining the sinuses causes sinusitis. It can be acute (short term) or chronic (long term). The common symptoms of sinus infection are stuffed nose, thick mucus from nose and pain around sinuses. Small growths called polyps block the nasal passage during sinusitis. One can lose the sense of smell and taste due to these polyps.

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