How to treat loss of taste and smell

Smell helps create flavour, so congestion or reduced smell can make food seem tasteless even when the tongue is working. A common cold and COVID-19 can present with changes in taste and smell. Long-lasting symptoms can follow an infection, while allergies, nasal polyps, medicines, dental problems, smoking, or a head injury may also be relevant. The timing of both symptoms and any nasal blockage helps guide assessment.

Book a clinical review if symptoms are sudden without a clear cold, persist after recovery, or interfere with eating. Do not use strong chemicals, excessive salt, or very hot spices to compensate. Try varied textures and safe aromatic foods, and keep meals appealing by changing temperature and presentation. Smell training, using familiar scents in a structured way, may be discussed with a clinician. Check food freshness by date and storage rather than smell, and test smoke and gas alarms regularly.

Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, marked drowsiness, confusion, or inability to drink. Seek prompt medical assessment after a head injury, or if the change occurs with severe headache, facial weakness, weakness in a limb, or trouble speaking. Arrange review for persistent symptoms, repeated sinus problems, nasal bleeding, or reduced appetite and unintended weight loss.

Ask whether your pattern suggests infection, nasal inflammation, a medicine effect, or another cause. Discuss whether nasal treatment or smell training is suitable, how to protect nutrition, and what change should prompt another appointment.