COVID: losing smell and taste

Smell contributes strongly to flavour, so food may seem bland when either sense changes. COVID-19 can affect smell directly, while a blocked or inflamed nose can reduce odours reaching the smell receptors. A common cold, allergic rhinitis or chronic sinusitis can produce similar changes. Some people notice distorted smells as recovery begins.

You can read about [Loss of Smell](/symptoms/loss-of-smell/), [COVID-19](/conditions/covid-19/) and [Long COVID](/conditions/long-covid/) for related information.

Choose foods with varied textures and safe temperatures, and keep meals appealing without relying on excessive salt or sugar. Check food dates carefully because smell may no longer warn you about spoilage. Make sure smoke and gas alarms work. If nasal blockage or allergies are present, a clinician or pharmacist can advise on suitable treatment; avoid inserting products into the nose unless advised.

Arrange a review if the change persists, keeps returning, is one-sided, follows a head injury, or affects eating, weight, mood or safety. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, severe headache, sudden weakness or confusion. New smell loss can occur with COVID-19, but the symptom alone cannot identify its cause.

Ask whether your pattern fits an infection, nasal condition or longer-lasting post-COVID symptom, whether an examination is needed, and how to protect nutrition and household safety while senses recover.