What is the term for the inability to smell?

Anosmia is the correct term for the complete inability to smell. It can occur due to various reasons, such as nasal obstructions, neurological factors, or as a result of certain illnesses. Anosmia can significantly impact a person's quality of life, as the sense of smell is closely linked to taste and can affect appetite and enjoyment of food.

Understanding anosmia is crucial in clinical settings, as it helps healthcare professionals identify and manage underlying conditions. For instance, a patient presenting with sudden anosmia might warrant further investigation for potential issues like viral infections or head trauma.

The other terms listed refer to related but distinct concepts. Dysosmia refers to a distortion or change in the sense of smell, where a person can smell but experiences altered perceptions of odors. Hyposmia is a reduced ability to smell, meaning the person can still detect scents but at a diminished level compared to normal. Olfactory fatigue describes a temporary reduction in the ability to detect odors after prolonged exposure to a specific scent, leading to a sort of sensory adaptation. Each of these terms relates to different aspects of olfactory function, confirming the specificity of anosmia as the total lack of smell.