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COVID anosmia duration: what to know

Where Loss of Smell is typically felt, shown on a simplified body outline
Illustration: Where Loss of Smell is typically felt, shown on a simplified body outline

Short answer

COVID-19-related loss of smell may improve as infection settles, but recovery time varies and persistent symptoms need medical advice.

This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.

At a glance

Pattern
Loss, reduction or distortion of smell can follow COVID-19.
Recovery
The time course differs between people.
Safety
Check smoke alarms and food carefully when smell is reduced.

Why smell can change

COVID-19 can affect the smell system, causing reduced or absent smell, distorted smells or a changed sense of familiar odours. Smell and taste are closely linked, so food may seem unusually bland even when taste itself is intact.

A blocked nose from allergic rhinitis or a common cold can also reduce smell. Chronic sinusitis is another possible explanation. Loss of smell does not prove that COVID-19 is the cause, especially when nasal symptoms are prominent.

Looking after yourself

Test for COVID-19 when appropriate under local guidance, and take care around smoke, gas, spoiled food and other hazards you may not detect by smell. Keep a simple record of changes. Smell training may be discussed with a clinician if the problem continues.

When to seek care

Arrange a review if smell does not return, changes in a troubling way, follows a head injury or is accompanied by persistent nasal blockage, facial pain or repeated nosebleeds. Seek urgent help for new neurological symptoms, severe headache, confusion or breathing difficulty.

Questions for your doctor

Ask whether the pattern fits COVID-19 or a nasal condition, whether your nose and sinuses need examination, and whether smell training or referral is suitable.

Find care

General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi

That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.

City
See every listing in Abu Dhabi

Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.

A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.

Questions people ask

How long does COVID-related anosmia last?

There is no single duration that applies to everyone; it may improve as recovery progresses, while ongoing loss should be reviewed.

Can a blocked nose cause loss of smell?

Yes. Allergic rhinitis, a common cold and chronic sinusitis can interfere with smell, so COVID-19 is not the only possible cause.

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Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.