Abstract
Objectives: To identify the relationship between pulmonary function and subjective olfactory dysfunction in middle-aged and older adults. Materials and Methods: We used Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data from 2010 to 2012 to analyze 6191 participants in their 50s or older. Results: The frequency of olfactory dysfunction was 6.8% among the subjects with normal pulmonary function tests, but was significantly more frequent in those diagnosed with restrictive (9.6%) or obstructive (10.1%) pulmonary function. Forced volume vital capacity, forced expiratory volume (FEV)1, FEV6, and peak expiratory flow were significantly lower in the olfactory dysfunction group. The risk of olfactory dysfunction was significantly associated with obstructive pulmonary function (odds ratio (OR) [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 1.449 [1.010–2.081]) after adjusting for confounders (sex, rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, hypertension, dyslipidemia, education level, stress, depressed mood, and suicidal ideation). Conclusion: Middle-aged and older adults with obstructive pulmonary function had a higher incidence of subjective olfactory dysfunction than the normal pulmonary function group. Early olfactory testing may improve the quality of life of patients with obstructive pulmonary function.
Highlights
Olfactory dysfunction is a common upper respiratory symptom and has been reported to have a high prevalence of about 19% in the adult population [1]
The number of participants complaining of olfactory dysfunction increased significantly with age
Subjects with rhinitis and chronic rhinosinusitis had a higher incidence of olfactory dysfunction, while there was no difference in the incidence of olfactory dysfunction according to current smoking and regular exercise
Summary
Olfactory dysfunction is a common upper respiratory symptom and has been reported to have a high prevalence of about 19% in the adult population [1]. Olfactory dysfunction affects diet and quality of life (QOL) and, in severe cases, can adversely affect mental health [2]. Patients with olfactory dysfunction are exposed to the risk of accidents during daily life, such as inability to smell burning or gas, or eating rotten food [3]. Several questionnaire studies have confirmed that olfactory dysfunction has a significant impact on QOL [4]. As the aging society progresses, the prevalence of olfactory dysfunction is expected to increase further. It is important to understand the causes and mechanisms of olfactory dysfunction for the treatment of it
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
