Anosmia and COVID: what to know

Smell may return gradually after the infection settles, although recovery varies. A new smell change can also have other causes, including a cold, allergies, sinus inflammation, nasal polyps, medicines, or a head injury.

The infection can disrupt cells that support the smell-sensing system in the upper nose. Some people lose smell completely; others notice weaker, distorted, or unpleasant smells as the system recovers. Taste may seem reduced because much of flavour depends on aromas reaching the nose.

Anosmia alone cannot confirm COVID-19. Consider current respiratory symptoms, recent exposure, and local public-health advice about testing and limiting contact with others.

Follow current UAE guidance if COVID-19 is suspected or confirmed. Rest, drink enough fluid, and avoid putting strong chemicals or essential oils directly inside the nose. If nasal congestion is present, saline spray may help airflow, but decongestants are not suitable for everyone.

Use working smoke and gas alarms, check food dates, and ask someone with a normal sense of smell to assess food or possible leaks. Once the acute illness has eased, a clinician may suggest structured smell training using familiar scents if loss continues.

Seek emergency help for severe difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, new confusion, collapse, or persistent chest pain. These warning signs require urgent assessment whether or not smell has changed.

Arrange a routine appointment if anosmia persists after other symptoms improve, keeps worsening, affects only one nostril, or comes with recurrent nosebleeds. Sudden loss after a head injury, weakness on one side, facial drooping, trouble speaking, or a severe new headache also needs urgent evaluation.

Ask whether nasal examination is needed, whether any current medicine could affect smell, when smell training would be appropriate, and what change in symptoms should prompt follow-up. Mention congestion, distorted smells, head injury, and whether the loss is complete or partial.