Smelling cigarette smoke after COVID: how long does it last?

An odour that is not present is called a phantom smell. After COVID, smell signals can become distorted, so familiar odours may seem smoky, burnt, chemical, or unpleasant. This can occur alongside reduced or altered smell and taste. Recovery is uneven: the sensation may come and go, improve slowly, or return briefly during an otherwise improving period.

The symptom can also have other explanations, including nasal inflammation, a sinus problem, migraine, medication effects, or a neurological condition. It does not by itself prove that you have ongoing COVID or Long COVID.

Keep a simple record of when the phantom smell occurs, how long it lasts, and whether congestion, headache, fatigue, or a new illness appears with it. Check smoke alarms and ask someone you trust to confirm possible real odours, because altered smell can make hazards harder to recognise. Avoid smoking and strong irritants, and use ordinary nasal care only as advised by a clinician.

Book a GP assessment if the change persists, interferes with eating or sleep, or comes with ongoing loss of smell, taste, concentration, or mood changes. A clinician can review COVID history, medicines, nasal symptoms, and other causes.

Seek urgent care for a sudden severe headache, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, confusion, fainting, or a seizure. Get prompt advice if the smell follows a head injury, is accompanied by significant breathing difficulty, or occurs with severe facial pain and fever. Do not wait for the smell to settle if these warning signs are present.

Ask whether the pattern fits post-viral smell disturbance, whether your nose or sinuses need examination, and whether any medicine could contribute. Discuss whether smell training or referral is appropriate, and how to protect yourself from missed smoke or gas alarms.