Why Do Colds Cause Us to Lose Some of Our

question 85

Multiple Choice

Why do colds cause us to lose some of our appreciation for the taste of food?

• A)The symptoms of colds interfere with the stimuli reaching the taste bud receptors, thus dulling the perception of taste.
• B)The symptoms of colds prevent stimuli from reaching olfactory neurons efficiently, thus dulling the perception of taste.
• C)Cold viruses raise the firing threshold of olfactory neurons, thus dulling the perception of taste.
• D)Cold viruses lower the firing threshold of olfactory neurons, thus dulling the perception of taste.
• E)Cold viruses denature olfactory neurons, thus dulling the perception of taste.

---

Definitions:

Tympanic Membrane

A thin, cone-shaped membrane also known as the eardrum, which separates the external ear from the middle ear.

Middle Ear Infection

An inflammatory condition of the middle ear, often causing pain, fluid buildup, and sometimes hearing loss.

Dizzy

A feeling of unsteadiness or a sensation of spinning around, leading to potential loss of balance.

Pinpoint Pupils

A condition where the pupils of the eyes become very small, often as a reaction to drugs or a sign of neurological damage.