What should you know about fever and loss of taste?

Taste and smell work closely together, so a blocked or inflamed nose can make food seem bland. Common Cold can cause congestion and fever, while COVID-19 may cause a sudden change in taste or smell with or without nasal blockage. Some people notice altered taste after an infection; when symptoms continue after the original illness, Long COVID is one possible explanation among others.

Loss of taste alone does not establish a diagnosis. Consider whether you can smell normally, whether food tastes distorted or absent, and whether you have congestion, sore throat, cough, breathlessness, mouth symptoms, or a new medicine that could affect taste.

Rest, drink fluids, and choose nourishing foods with textures and temperatures that remain appealing. Keep the nose and mouth comfortable with gentle hygiene, and avoid smoking. Follow current local advice about testing and staying away from vulnerable people when a respiratory infection is possible. Do not compensate for reduced taste by adding excessive salt, sugar, or very hot spices.

Arrange medical advice if the fever persists, breathing symptoms develop, eating and drinking become difficult, or taste does not start returning after the acute illness. Mention all medicines and supplements at the appointment.

Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, chest pain, blue or grey lips, confusion, fainting, severe dehydration, or inability to stay awake. Get prompt assessment if fever is worsening, you cannot keep fluids down, or mouth and throat swelling interferes with swallowing.

Could congestion, infection, or a medicine explain my taste change? Should I test for COVID-19? How can I maintain nutrition while food tastes different? When should persistent symptoms be investigated?