How common is loss of taste in Long COVID?

After COVID-19, taste may remain reduced, disappear, or become distorted. Some people describe a metallic, bitter, or unpleasant flavour, while others find that foods have little flavour. Smell and taste work closely together, so a change in smell can make eating seem different even when the tongue is working normally.

Long COVID symptoms can vary from one person to another and may improve, recur, or change alongside fatigue, breathlessness, headaches, or concentration difficulties. Loss of taste alone does not establish Long COVID; a clinician considers the timing of the original illness, recovery pattern, other symptoms, and alternative explanations.

Keep a simple record of when taste changes, what foods are affected, and whether smell or nasal symptoms change at the same time. Try different textures and temperatures, and use mild herbs or seasonings if they are comfortable. Take care with food safety because altered smell and taste may make spoilage less obvious.

Protect regular meals and fluid intake, especially if flavours are unpleasant. A clinician can check medicines, nasal problems, oral health, and nutrition, then discuss suitable support if symptoms are persistent or disruptive.

Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, fainting, new confusion, inability to stay awake, or serious dehydration. Contact a clinician if taste loss is preventing adequate food or fluid intake, is accompanied by unexplained weight loss, or is worsening. Arrange a review for a persistent or distressing change so other causes can be considered.

Ask whether your timing and other symptoms fit a post-COVID pattern, whether medicines or nasal congestion could contribute, and whether your nutrition needs checking. Ask what follow-up is appropriate if taste fluctuates or remains altered.