So I went to the ENT today after having hyposmia for about 6 weeks now following a URI. After having read everything there is to read about the condition (I'm something of a hypochondriac at the best of times) on the Web, I was prepared for the ENT verdict, but admittedly somewhat surprised when he finally delivered it. He basically said 'Dunno, probably viral.. dunno if you'll get it all back.. who knows.' No smell test and no assessment of continuing sinus pressure and any possible links to hyposmia.

He ordered a CT and prescribed some Prednisone and Flixonase.

Is there really no new knowledge or research done on this subject? Seems so weird to me.. I have fairly pronounced tinnitus as well (what's next?!) - a couple of years ago they were saying the same thing: nothing to do. But now we do have Neuromonics treatment which is highly effective for people with this condition, and Xanax works as well.. really wondering why sos conditions leave even experts stone cold.

Anyway, has anyone used Flixonase? I'm VERY skeptical about putting anything up my nose at this point. I've still got decent smell if I hold things up to my nose, but sense of taste is pretty poor - I downed two glasses of Maker's Mark (bourbon) this evening and it tasted like spicy water. I'd like to hold on to that at least!

Also, should I wait for the CT scan before ingesting Prednisone? Some people seem to get something out of this treatment, so I'm willing to give it a try to see if it gets me back to 'normal' (or at least clue me in on whether it is a viral or inflammatory problem). But the CT isn't for a couple of weeks, and the treatment might affect the results of the CT.. anyone have advice?

Thanks!