Does a blocked nose affect taste?

The tongue still detects basic tastes, but meals may seem bland when congestion reduces the aroma reaching smell receptors.

Flavour combines taste from the tongue with smell sensed through the back of the nose. Swelling, mucus or inflammation can interrupt that route. A common cold, allergic rhinitis, sinusitis or chronic sinusitis may block the nose. House dust mite allergy can also maintain congestion. Obstructive sleep apnoea is another condition associated with nasal symptoms, although a blocked nose has many possible explanations.

Drink fluids, avoid smoke and other irritants, and use gentle measures recommended for nasal congestion. Saline rinsing may help some people when performed with safe water and clean equipment. If allergy symptoms are involved, ask a pharmacist or clinician whether allergy medication is appropriate. Do not use a decongestant spray for longer than its instructions, because overuse can worsen blockage.

Seek medical advice if blockage or altered taste persists, keeps returning, affects one side, or comes with facial pain, fever, foul-smelling discharge or reduced smell after an injury. Get urgent help for swelling around the eye, severe headache, confusion, breathing difficulty or sudden neurological symptoms.

Ask what may be causing the blockage, whether your smell is also reduced, which treatment is suitable, and when persistent symptoms need an ear, nose and throat review.