Does allergic rhinitis cause loss of smell?

Smell depends on air reaching a specialised area high inside the nose. During an allergic flare, swollen tissue and extra mucus can reduce that airflow, so smells may seem faint or absent. Congestion may also affect how food tastes because flavour relies partly on smell. The change may improve as nasal inflammation settles. A cold, nasal polyps, medication effects, head injury and other conditions can also alter smell, so a new or persistent change deserves attention.

Keep a note of when the change began and whether it follows a blocked nose or a known trigger. Reduce exposure to pollen, dust or other triggers, and avoid smoke and strong chemical fumes. Saline nasal care may help clear mucus if a healthcare professional says it is suitable. Ask a pharmacist or clinician about allergy treatment and use nasal products exactly as directed; do not insert objects into the nose.

Arrange medical advice if loss of smell lasts after congestion improves, develops without nasal symptoms, keeps worsening or follows a head injury. Seek urgent care for sudden neurological symptoms, severe headache, confusion, weakness or breathing difficulty. Do not rely on smell to detect smoke or spoiled food while it is reduced; check safety alarms and food dates by other means.

Ask whether nasal swelling explains the change, whether polyps or another cause should be checked, and which treatment is appropriate for your symptoms.