How long till taste comes back after COVID?

What people call taste is strongly influenced by smell. COVID-19 can affect the smell system, making food seem bland, different, or unpleasant even when the tongue itself is working normally. Recovery may be uneven: familiar foods can taste different before flavour becomes more recognisable.

Loss of taste can occur with other COVID symptoms or remain after the rest of the illness has eased. Persistent changes can affect appetite, nutrition, and enjoyment of meals; they are a reason to discuss the symptom rather than a sign that recovery has failed.

Choose foods with varied textures and safe, mild flavours, and keep meals appealing without relying on excessive salt or sugar. Check food dates carefully because altered smell may make spoilage harder to notice. Maintain fluid intake and eat regular nourishing meals, even if portions are smaller.

Smell training may be discussed with a clinician when smell loss accompanies the taste change. Do not place irritants inside the nose or use unapproved products. A food diary can show which flavours are tolerable and whether appetite is falling.

Arrange a medical review if taste or smell does not begin to improve, changes become distressing, or you are losing weight, struggling to eat, or feeling persistently low. Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, chest pain, confusion, fainting, or inability to stay awake during an acute illness.

Ask whether your taste change is more likely to reflect altered smell, whether an examination is needed, and how to protect nutrition while food remains unappealing. Mention any distorted smells, reduced appetite, or mood changes.