DEAR DR. GOTT:
I have had a loss of taste since March 1970. I saw many write-ups about a particular physician finding a cure for the problem. My understanding was that he used zinc. However, I wrote to him and his answer was to have my doctor contact him. My personal physician did so, with no response. Is there anything at this late date that can be done?

DEAR READER:
There are several known causes for a loss of smell or taste, including sinus infection, allergies, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and stroke. Some medications such as antidepressants, antihistamines, anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, and chemotherapy have been linked to a loss of smell. Then, there’s zinc, an essential nutrient in the body. A zinc deficiency is marked by a loss of smell and taste, poor appetite, abnormal weakness, slowed growth, slow wound healing, and a greater risk of infection. [Read more...]