How long can loss of smell last after COVID-19?

COVID-19 can temporarily disrupt smell-sensing cells and the way smell signals are processed. Smell may return unevenly: familiar scents can become noticeable before subtle ones, and some smells may seem distorted or unpleasant. Taste can also feel reduced because flavour depends heavily on smell. Ongoing loss of smell, taste changes, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, joint pain or low mood can occur as part of Long COVID, but these symptoms have other possible explanations too.

Keep a simple record of changes rather than testing yourself repeatedly. Smell training, using a small set of distinct familiar scents in a calm routine, may help some people; a clinician or pharmacist can explain whether it is suitable for you. Check food dates carefully, use smoke and gas alarms, and ask someone else to check food if you cannot detect spoilage. Avoid putting irritants inside your nose. Arrange a review if smell loss continues, worsens, or affects eating, safety or mood.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, chest pain, new confusion, fainting, or difficulty staying awake. Contact a clinician promptly for a severe headache, one-sided weakness, a head injury, new neurological changes, or nasal symptoms with significant pain or swelling. A routine appointment is appropriate when smell has not started to return, becomes distorted, or remains troublesome after the infection has settled.

Ask whether your pattern fits post-viral smell loss, whether nasal examination is needed, and which smell-training approach is safe. Mention medicines, allergies, sinus symptoms, head injury, altered taste, appetite changes and any effect on mood or daily safety.