An evaluation of olfactory function in adults with gastro-esophageal reflux disease

Abstract

Conclusion: To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to evaluate the olfactory function of adult patients diagnosed with GERD. The results revealed that adults with GERD have diminished olfactory function. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the olfactory abilities of subjects using the ‘Sniffin’ Sticks’ olfactory test. Methods: A total of 35 men and women aged 18–60 years with a diagnosis of GERD and 45 healthy controls were included in the study. The Sniffin’ Sticks olfactory test results of the two groups were compared, and the relationship between the study findings and the olfactory parameters was evaluated. Results: The odor threshold (10.1; 9.5, p = 0.016), odor identification (9.6; 8.1, p < 0.001), and odor discrimination (10.7; 8.9, p < 0.001) of the GERD group were significantly lower than those of the control group. A statistically significant positive correlation was detected between the accompanying chronic pharyngitis, chronic sinusitis, and odor parameters. A significant correlation was not detected between the laryngeal findings and the olfactory parameters.

Keywords:

• Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease
• olfactory function
• Sniffin’ Sticks
• laryngopharyngeal reflux
• odor parameters