How long can COVID loss of smell and taste last?

Some people notice improvement soon after the infection, while others have a slower or uneven return. Smells may seem distorted, and flavour can remain muted because smell and taste work together. Nasal blockage, allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis and a common cold can also delay or mimic recovery. Persistent change may be described as part of Long COVID.

Related pages include [Loss of Smell](/symptoms/loss-of-smell/), [COVID-19](/conditions/covid-19/) and [Long COVID](/conditions/long-covid/).

Record when the change began, whether it is improving, and whether particular smells seem wrong or unpleasant. Keep eating regular, balanced meals and monitor whether reduced taste affects appetite. Use visual checks for food freshness and confirm smoke and gas alarms are functioning. If symptoms are persistent or disruptive, arrange a clinical review rather than repeatedly testing yourself with irritants.

Seek medical advice when there is no clear improvement, symptoms worsen after improving, the change is one-sided, or eating and mood are affected. Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, severe facial swelling, sudden weakness, confusion or a serious head injury. The duration of smell or taste change does not by itself confirm COVID-19 or Long COVID.

Ask whether nasal examination is appropriate, what other causes should be considered, how to protect nutrition and safety, and when persistent symptoms should be reassessed.