Indicator 10: Changes in Smell and Taste
Changes in the sense of smell or taste are often overlooked as signs of DLB. Individuals may report a reduced ability to smell (hyposmia) or a complete loss of smell (anosmia). Changes in the sense of taste can also occur, with food seeming bland or different than before.
These changes are thought to be related to the deposition of Lewy bodies in the olfactory system and areas of the brain involved in taste perception. It’s worth noting that these sensory changes can predate the cognitive or motor symptoms of DLB, providing potential early diagnostic clues.
The changes in smell or taste can affect the person’s appetite and nutritional status. They might lose interest in food, lose weight, or in contrast, start overeating or crave certain foods.(10)
