During a Sinus Infection It is Difficult to Smell Because

Question

During a sinus infection it is difficult to smell because
A) basal cell division decreases.
B) olfactory glands stop producing mucus.
C) olfactory supporting cells block odorant molecules from reaching the receptors.
D) the hypothalamus stops responding to olfactory stimulation.
E) excess mucus blocks odorant molecules from reaching the receptors.

Accepted Answer

During a sinus infection, excess mucus can block odorant molecules from reaching the olfactory receptors, leading to a decreased sense of smell.