Common cold and loss of smell

Smell depends on air reaching a small area high inside the nose. A blocked or inflamed nose can interrupt that airflow, so food may also seem less flavoursome. A cold commonly brings congestion, sneezing, and a cough. Sinusitis can cause more persistent blockage, facial pressure, or thick nasal discharge. A change that begins suddenly without congestion, follows a head injury, or continues after other cold symptoms settle has a different pattern and should be discussed with a clinician.

Rest, drink fluids, and avoid cigarette smoke or strong irritants. Saline nasal drops or a saline rinse may ease mucus and dryness; use a clean method and follow product directions. Do not insert objects into the nose. Take care with hot food, smoke, and spoiled food because reduced smell can weaken warning signals. Ask a pharmacist before using a decongestant, particularly if you have other medical conditions or take regular medicines.

Arrange medical advice if smell loss is severe, lasts after the cold has cleared, keeps returning, or comes with facial pain, swelling, a high temperature, or worsening headache. Seek urgent care after a head injury, or if smell loss occurs with weakness, confusion, trouble speaking, or severe breathing difficulty.

Ask whether congestion explains the change, how long recovery may take, and whether your nose or sinuses need examination. Tell the clinician about allergies, recent injury, medicines, smoking, and any change in taste or breathing.