In children, it usually takes about three to six weeks to heal. However, it will take at least the same period again to restore full strength to your shoulder. While the fracture heals, a lump may develop along the collarbone.
A: A reduced sense of smell (hyposmia) -- and less often taste (hypogeusia) -- are common conditions that are more likely to occur as we get older. In fact, some loss of taste and smell occurs normally with aging. The nerves and nerve endings that send smell and taste signals to the brain can degenerate as we age. The senses of smell and taste are rarely lost simultaneously. Loss of the sense of smell is more common. Because our sense of smell plays a critical role in the appreciation of flavors, loss of our sense of smell frequently gives the perception that our sense of taste is lost or greatly diminished.
Many older people believe that there is nothing they can do about their weakened sense of taste. Depending on the cause of your problem, your doctor may be able to suggest ways to regain your sense of taste or to cope with the loss of taste. In many cases, the loss of taste turns out to be a loss of smell. If you think you have a problem with your sense of taste, see your doctor. 1  1. 2  2.