Loss of smell and sinusitis: what to know

A blocked or inflamed nose can make food seem less flavourful because smell contributes strongly to flavour. Sinusitis may also cause facial pressure, thick nasal discharge, congestion, cough, or reduced breathing through the nose. A sinus infection is one possible explanation; allergic rhinitis, a common cold, COVID-19, and longer-lasting changes after COVID-19 can also affect smell. A loss of smell does not by itself identify the cause.

Keep track of when the change began and whether it followed congestion, facial pain, fever, or a respiratory illness. Drink fluids, rest, and avoid smoke and strong irritants. Saline nasal rinsing may ease mucus for some people when performed with safe water and clean equipment. Do not insert objects into the nose or start antibiotics without assessment. If symptoms continue, recur, or interfere with eating or safety, arrange a clinician review.

Seek prompt medical advice for severe or worsening facial pain, swelling around an eye, vision changes, a severe headache, confusion, neck stiffness, or difficulty breathing. Arrange an appointment when smell remains reduced after nasal symptoms settle, when symptoms keep returning, or when one-sided blockage or bleeding develops. A clinician can examine the nose, review medicines and allergies, and decide whether testing or specialist care is needed.

Ask whether the pattern fits sinus inflammation, allergy, a viral illness, or another cause. You can also ask which nasal treatments are suitable, how to rinse safely, what changes should trigger urgent review, and whether reduced smell needs an ear, nose, and throat assessment.