Why does common cold cause loss of smell?

When less air carrying an odour reaches this area, food, perfume and other familiar smells may seem faint or absent. Flavour can also feel muted because much of what people describe as taste comes from smell.

Loss of Smell is a very common presentation of Common Cold. A blocked or runny nose, sneezing, sore throat and cough can occur alongside it. The change is often temporary as the inflammation settles and air can pass through the nose more freely.

Smell may take longer to feel fully normal than nasal congestion. Avoid relying on smell to judge whether food has spoiled, and make sure smoke and gas alarms are working while your smell is reduced.

Rest, drink fluids and use simple measures that ease congestion, such as saline nasal spray or a saline rinse used as directed. Gentle nose blowing may be more comfortable than forceful blowing, which can irritate already swollen tissues.

Check with a pharmacist or clinician before using a decongestant if you have a long-term health condition, are pregnant, or take regular medicines. Do not put irritants, essential oils or household products inside your nose in an effort to restore smell.

Seek urgent medical help for trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, a severe headache with a stiff neck, or swelling around the eyes. These symptoms need prompt assessment regardless of the cause of your reduced smell.

Arrange a medical review if loss of smell does not improve after your cold symptoms have settled, if it began after a head injury, or if you have persistent facial pain, one-sided blockage, recurrent nosebleeds or a high fever. A clinician can check for causes beyond a simple cold.

You could ask whether your nasal symptoms suggest ongoing inflammation, whether any medicine you use could affect smell, and how long to wait before arranging a follow-up. Mention recent infections, allergies, sinus symptoms, head injuries and any change in taste.