Anosmia

Tips from survivors: “I label leftovers and rely on dates — I can’t trust my nose anymore.”

A loss or significant reduction in the ability to smell.

Inability to detect odors (food, smoke, perfume), reduced enjoyment of meals, or relying more on taste and texture.

Stroke can affect the brain regions or pathways responsible for processing smell.

Less common than other sensory changes, but reported by some stroke survivors.

Safety strategies (smoke detectors, checking food freshness), focusing on texture and flavor intensity, and smell retraining exercises.

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