Common cold and loss of smell

A common cold can reduce your sense of smell when nasal swelling or mucus prevents scents reaching smell-sensing tissue. Food may also seem less flavoursome because smell contributes strongly to flavour. This change often appears alongside a blocked nose, runny nose or cough.

Inflammation inside the nose can narrow the passage for air and scents. Thick mucus can add to the blockage. A cold-related loss of smell is different from a long-lasting or repeatedly returning problem, which may have another explanation such as sinus inflammation. A common cold itself is usually managed with comfort measures; antibiotics do not treat the viruses that cause colds.

Rest, drink fluids, and avoid cigarette smoke or other irritants. Saline nasal drops or a saline rinse may loosen mucus; use a properly prepared product and follow its instructions. Gentle nose blowing can clear secretions, while forceful blowing may irritate the lining. Do not put objects or unapproved oils inside the nose. A pharmacist can help you choose symptom relief that fits your age, pregnancy status and other medicines.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, confusion, or a severe headache with a stiff neck. Arrange medical advice if the smell loss is sudden without cold symptoms, follows a head injury, is accompanied by severe facial pain or eye swelling, or does not improve as the cold settles. See guidance on [Blocked Nose](/symptoms/blocked-nose/) and [Sinusitis](/conditions/sinusitis/).

Could the duration or pattern suggest sinus inflammation rather than a cold? Should I stop or change any nasal medicine? What symptoms would mean I need an examination?