When to worry about loss of smell with chronic sinusitis

Ongoing inflammation, mucus and swelling can block airflow to the smell receptors. Nasal blockage, facial pressure, drainage, cough or a reduced sense of taste may occur alongside the change. Polyps, infection, medicines and other nasal conditions can also affect smell.

Book a routine review if smell remains reduced between flares, is worsening despite your treatment plan, or interferes with eating and safety. An examination can help identify inflammation, polyps or another reason for persistent symptoms.

Keep a simple record of smell, congestion, facial pressure, drainage, fever and treatments. Use prescribed nasal medicine or rinses as instructed, and use safe water and clean equipment for any rinse recommended by a clinician.

Avoid smoke and do not take leftover antibiotics. Tell the clinician about asthma, allergies, previous nasal surgery, new medicines or a head injury, since these details can change the assessment.

Seek prompt advice for swelling around an eye, vision change, severe headache, stiff neck, high fever, severe facial swelling or one-sided bloody discharge. Seek urgent help for confusion, weakness or breathing difficulty. Persistent loss without these signs should still receive routine assessment.

Ask whether inflammation or polyps are limiting airflow, how to use your nasal treatment, whether examination or specialist review is needed, and what improvement should prompt reassessment.