Can a cold cause loss of taste?

Taste detects basic sensations on the tongue, while smell contributes much of the detail people experience as flavour. A blocked or inflamed nose can therefore make food seem bland even when the taste buds are working. A [Common Cold](/conditions/common-cold/) may cause this change alongside a runny nose, sore throat, cough, or congestion.

Loss of taste can also occur with [COVID-19](/conditions/covid-19/) and other causes. A sudden change, especially without typical cold symptoms or after a relevant exposure, is a reason to follow current local testing and medical advice.

Rest, drink fluids, and use gentle measures that ease nasal congestion, such as saline nasal care if suitable for you. Avoid smoking and do not put irritant oils or substances inside the nose. Choose foods with varied textures and safe temperatures while flavour is reduced, and check food dates carefully because smell may be less reliable.

Notice whether taste returns as the cold and nasal blockage improve. Do not stop essential medicines without speaking to a clinician.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, confusion, severe dehydration, or rapidly worsening illness. Arrange medical advice if loss of taste is sudden without congestion, lasts after other cold symptoms resolve, returns repeatedly, or is accompanied by neurological symptoms. Ongoing symptoms may need assessment for [Long COVID](/conditions/long-covid/) or another cause.

Ask whether testing is appropriate, whether nasal treatment is safe with your conditions and medicines, and how long persistent taste change should be monitored.