Unusually Strong Sense of Smell: Understanding and Signs of Enhanced Olfactory Perception

The ability to distinguish subtle and complex odors can vary greatly among individuals. Some people possess a highly sensitive sense of smell, often giving them a unique ability to identify and differentiate odors that others cannot. This phenomenon can be fascinating and at times, beneficial, especially in certain professions such as wine tasting, perfume blending, or even in recognizing various ailments.

Enhanced Olfactory Perception

During my studies, I developed an unusually well-developed sense of smell. I could detect who had been in my room by the lingering scent they left behind. Furthermore, I could distinguish between aromas that others found indistinguishable. My sense of smell was so acute that I could identify the complex flavors of fine wines, a pleasure that few could appreciate. Discussions with a relative, a winemaker, often revolved around shared experiences, further enhancing my own olfactory appreciation.

Medical Impact

In 2016, I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a form of bone marrow cancer, which altered my sense of smell. Initially, bitter flavors became more pronounced, and treatments such as bortizumab, thalidomide, and dexamethasone affected my sensitivity to sour flavors. Later, chemotherapy left me unable to taste sweetness, making even juicy strawberries taste repulsive. However, these were changes in taste rather than smell.

Loss and Slow Return

In 2017, a parainfluenza infection temporarily robbed me of my sense of smell, causing a significant change in my life. Without the ability to smell, most foods tasted revolting, forcing me to rely on condiments to make them palatable. The restoration of my sense of smell has been a gradual process, with a limited number of odors initially becoming discernible.

Signs of Enhanced Smell Perception

Recognizing Odors Others Miss: Being able to identify nuances in smells that others find similar or indistinguishable. Enhanced Pleasure from Scented Activities: Experiencing pleasure from fine wines, perfumes, or other scented products beyond what is considered typical. Improved Identification of Odor Sources: Easily identifying objects or people based on the scents they emit. Developing a Unique Vocabulary for Scent: Creating a rich, distinctive set of words and labels to describe varied smells.

Factors Influencing Smell Perception

Several factors can influence an individual's sense of smell. The olfactory epithelium, a small tissue patch at the top of the nose, houses around 700 different chemical receptors. Each receptor responds to a specific smell, and everyone has a different mix of these receptors. Nerve signals then travel through the cribriform plate, which is full of holes, to the olfactory bulbs, located beneath the frontal lobes of the brain.

Mechanical and Chemical Interferences

Physical obstructions such as a blocked or inflamed nose can hinder the sense of smell. Common conditions like allergies, sinusitis, a deviated nasal septum, or nasal polyps can hinder the olfactory process. Injuries to the head can also damage the delicate nerves in the olfactory system, leading to a permanent loss of smell.

Cognitive and Training Factors

The degree to which individuals focus on and train their sense of smell can also vary. Some people are more attuned to aromas and smells, while others may not give as much attention to them. Regular training and practice can enhance one's olfactory perception, making it more sensitive and nuanced.

Research and Genetic Influences

Research has shown that some individuals cannot smell certain scents, such as the scent of freesias or the asparagus odor. In the case of coriander, it is estimated that about 15% of the population smells it as soapy due to genetic factors. The gene responsible for this has been identified, allowing researchers to predict how coriander will smell based on DNA testing.

Conclusion

The variability in human olfactory perception is a complex and intriguing aspect of sensory function. Understanding the factors that contribute to an enhanced sense of smell can provide insights into individual experiences and potentially improve various aspects of life, such as culinary enjoyment and overall sensory appreciation.