When should you see a doctor about loss of smell?

A blocked or inflamed nose can prevent smells reaching the smell receptors. Allergic rhinitis and a common cold may cause congestion, sneezing, or discharge. Chronic sinusitis can cause longer-lasting blockage, facial pressure, and changes in smell. COVID-19 can include loss or alteration of smell, while Long COVID may involve symptoms that continue after the initial illness.

Note whether the change affects one or both sides and record congestion, facial pain, fever, cough, recent infection, or injury. Avoid smoke and strong irritants, and use medicines only as directed. Check smoke and gas alarms because reduced smell can make hazards harder to detect. Do not put objects into the nose. Arrange review if the symptom does not improve as the underlying congestion settles.

Seek urgent help after a head injury if loss of smell comes with worsening headache, repeated vomiting, confusion, weakness, speech trouble, or unusual drowsiness. Get prompt care for severe breathing difficulty, marked dehydration, or rapidly worsening illness. Make an appointment for persistent loss, recurrent episodes, one-sided blockage, nosebleeds, facial pain, or smell changes that interfere with food safety.

Ask whether congestion, allergy, sinus disease, infection, injury, or another cause fits the pattern; whether your nose needs examination; and how to protect safety while smell is reduced.