Loss of smell and bronchitis

Bronchitis is inflammation of the larger breathing tubes and commonly causes cough, phlegm, chest discomfort and tiredness. Smell receptors sit in the upper nose, so bronchitis itself is not the usual direct route to smell loss.

The infection that triggered bronchitis can also irritate the nose and reduce airflow to the smell receptors. A common cold, COVID-19, allergic rhinitis or chronic sinusitis may cause nasal symptoms at the same time. Taste may seem weaker because flavour depends heavily on smell.

Rest, drink fluids and avoid tobacco smoke, vaping and other airway irritants. Follow any prescribed inhaler or other treatment exactly as directed, and ask a pharmacist before using a decongestant, especially if you have high blood pressure or take regular medicines.

Track your cough, breathing, nasal blockage and smell from day to day. Keep smoke and gas alarms working, and use dates rather than smell to judge whether food is fresh. If the cough improves but smell does not, arrange a review focused on the nose and sinuses rather than assuming bronchitis is the cause.

Seek urgent help for severe breathlessness, chest pain, coughing blood, blue or grey lips, confusion or fainting. Get prompt medical advice for a high or returning fever, worsening breathing, dehydration, or a cough that is becoming more severe.

Book an appointment for persistent smell loss, facial pain, one-sided blockage, recurrent nosebleeds or symptoms after a head injury. A clinician can listen to your chest and examine the nose, throat and sinuses to separate overlapping problems.

Could the infection behind my bronchitis be affecting my nose? Do I need testing for COVID-19 or assessment for sinus disease? Which cough or nasal treatments are safe with my medical history, and when should persistent smell loss be investigated?