Is it common to lose smell with a cold?

Viral inflammation can narrow the nasal passages and change how air moves across the upper nose. Mucus and a blocked nose can make food seem less flavourful because smell contributes to flavour. Smell often returns as congestion settles, although the timing varies between people.

A cold is one possible explanation, not the only one. Sinus inflammation, another infection, allergies, nasal polyps, or some medicines can also alter smell. A new loss of smell without typical cold symptoms deserves a clinician’s assessment, especially if it persists.

Rest, drink fluids, and use measures that safely ease nasal congestion. Saline nasal rinses or sprays may help some people; use clean water as directed for a rinse. Avoid smoke and strong irritants while your nose is inflamed. Do not use decongestant sprays longer than the product instructions allow.

Take care with food safety and household hazards while smell is reduced: check expiry dates and do not rely on smell to detect smoke, gas, or spoiled food. Notice whether your smell changes alongside congestion, cough, facial pressure, or fever.

Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, confusion, severe headache with neck stiffness, facial swelling, or a severe allergic reaction. Arrange medical review if smell loss is sudden without congestion, follows a head injury, is one-sided, or does not improve as the cold settles.

Ask whether your blocked nose or sinus symptoms explain the change, whether a medicine could be contributing, and how long to monitor it. Mention any cough, earache, facial pain, fever, or recent head injury.