Does sinusitis cause loss of smell?

Sinusitis inflames the lining of the nose and sinuses. The resulting congestion can narrow the route that air normally takes towards the smell receptors. Thick mucus can add another physical barrier. You may notice that food tastes less full because much of flavour comes from smell. A blocked or reduced sense of smell can occur with acute sinusitis and often improves as the inflammation settles.

Sinusitis is not the only possible explanation. A cold, allergic rhinitis, COVID-19, or another nasal problem can also change smell. A persistent change deserves assessment, particularly when it does not improve after the other nasal symptoms have settled.

Follow the treatment plan given by a clinician and drink fluids if this is suitable for you. Saline nasal rinsing may help clear mucus; use sterile, distilled, or previously boiled and cooled water, and clean the device as directed. Avoid inserting cotton buds or other objects into the nose. Do not use a decongestant spray for longer than its label advises, because overuse can worsen blockage. Be cautious with food, smoke, gas, and spoiled items while smell is reduced, since your usual warning signal may be missing.

Arrange medical advice if loss of smell continues after sinus symptoms improve, keeps returning, or affects eating and daily safety. Seek prompt care for severe headache, swelling around an eye, vision changes, confusion, a stiff neck, or feeling very unwell. Contact a clinician sooner if symptoms are mainly on one side, there is repeated nosebleeding, or you have a weakened immune system. A clinician can examine the nose, review the pattern of symptoms, and decide whether further testing or treatment is needed.

You could ask: Does the pattern of congestion and facial pressure fit sinusitis? Could an allergy, viral infection, or nasal growth be contributing? Which nasal treatments are appropriate for me, and how long should I use them? How should I protect myself while my sense of smell is reduced?