Common cold and loss of taste

A common cold may make food seem tasteless because nasal blockage reduces smell, which supplies much of flavour perception. The tongue may still detect basic tastes, while aromas are harder to notice through a congested nose. This can happen with a runny nose, cough or pressure around the face.

Swelling and mucus can stop aromas travelling from the mouth towards smell receptors. Dry mouth from mouth-breathing can also make eating feel different. Taste changes that continue after other cold symptoms improve, or that occur without congestion, deserve a clinical review because causes other than a cold are possible. Avoid assuming that a change in flavour identifies one particular illness.

Take fluids regularly and choose soft, nourishing foods if eating feels difficult. Saline drops or a saline rinse may ease nasal congestion when used as directed. Keep smoke and strong chemical fumes away from your breathing space. Check labels before using combination cold remedies, since several products may contain the same ingredient. A pharmacist can advise about suitable options, especially for children, pregnancy or long-term conditions.

Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, facial or throat swelling, confusion, or inability to keep fluids down. Seek medical advice if taste or smell changes begin suddenly without cold symptoms, follow a head injury, or remain after nasal symptoms have cleared. Facial pain with worsening congestion may need assessment for [Sinusitis](/conditions/sinusitis/).

Is my change in flavour likely to be linked to nasal congestion? Could any medicine or mouth dryness be contributing? How long should I monitor it before arranging a review?