I haven't lost my sense of taste or smell, its amplified. It's not like it tastes differently either. It's as soon as it touches my tongue or even at times just the mention of food, I feel ill. I tried force feeding myself but it's just getting worse. I'm now down to just protein shakes to keep me going. I'm quite down hearted by it. Is this forever?

Hi Orlie,

Thank you for reaching out to the Stroke Foundation through EnableMe. We’re sorry to hear about your stroke and the struggles you are now experiencing with the inability to eat. It sounds like it’s having a significant impact on you and something we encourage you to talk to your GP about as soon as possible.

You may be experiencing dysosmia which is an increased sensitivity to smell and taste which is making even simple foods nauseating and overwhelming. Dysosmia describes heightened smell (and often taste) sensitivity, where normal flavours or smells feel unusually intense and sometimes nauseating, right from first contact or even at the thought of food.

Changes to sensations like taste can occur after stroke. You can read more about this in the links below.

• Vision and senses | enableme - stroke recovery and support
• Taste and smell changes after stroke | Stroke Association (UK)
• Sensory and perceptual problems | Fact sheet | Synapse
• Coping with changes to taste and smell | Stroke Association

We would strongly recommend talking to your GP as soon as possible as this is having a significant impact on your ability to eat and get the nutrients you need. This can have significant impacts to your health and effectiveness of your medication. Your GP can rule out other possible causes/contributing factors such as medication side effects. You can also ask for a referral to see a dietitian and also perhaps a speech pathologist for ongoing assessment, support and management. You can ask if you are eligible for a chronic conditions plan, where you can get a number of partially subsidised visits. 

If you would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact us on StrokeLine 1800 787 653. We are available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm AEDT. 

Wishing you all the best,

Bec – StrokeLine  

Thank you for your advice and information. I will discuss at my next appointment.