Loss of Smell

Loss of smell occurs when odours no longer reach the smell receptors properly or when the smell pathway is affected.

Food may seem bland because flavour relies heavily on smell. You might notice a complete absence of odour, a weaker sense of smell, or distorted smells that seem unpleasant or unfamiliar. The change can affect enjoyment of meals and the ability to notice smoke, gas, or spoiled food.

Seek urgent medical help for smell loss after a head injury, or when it occurs with sudden weakness, facial drooping, speech difficulty, severe headache, confusion, or trouble breathing. Those symptoms need prompt assessment regardless of the change in smell.

Arrange a routine review when the change persists, follows a respiratory infection without improving, affects only one side of the nose, or occurs with frequent nosebleeds, marked nasal blockage, or facial pain.

The causes below are alphabetical and are not ordered by likelihood. Allergic rhinitis can swell the nasal lining and limit the movement of odours into the nose. Chronic sinusitis may cause blockage, discharge, pressure, and a reduced sense of smell.

A common cold and COVID-19 can change smell during or after an infection. Some people with long COVID continue to notice an altered or reduced sense of smell after the initial illness has passed.

A clinician will ask when the smell change began, whether it followed an infection or injury, and whether you have congestion, allergies, sinus symptoms, altered taste, or neurological symptoms. They may examine the nose, throat, and ears and review medicines and exposures.

Further tests may be considered if symptoms are persistent or unusual. These can include a structured smell assessment, nasal examination with a small camera, or imaging when the clinical findings point to a need.

Care may focus on reducing nasal inflammation, managing allergy or sinus symptoms, or supporting recovery after a viral illness. A clinician can advise whether nasal treatments, allergy management, or referral to an ear, nose, and throat specialist is appropriate.

Smell training may be suggested for some persistent changes. It involves regularly smelling a selected set of familiar scents while paying attention to each one; follow a clinician's instructions on whether it suits your situation.

Avoid smoking and reduce exposure to irritant fumes where possible. Manage known allergies as advised, wash hands during respiratory-virus seasons, and avoid putting objects or unprescribed products inside the nose.

Use protective equipment for dusty or chemical work according to workplace guidance. Seek advice before prolonged use of nasal decongestant sprays, as they can worsen blockage when used beyond the recommended period.

Report nasal blockage, sneezing, itch, discharge, sinus pressure, fever, cough, changes in taste, headache, or symptoms after an injury. Also describe whether smells are absent, faint, or distorted, and whether the change is constant.

A reduced sense of smell can affect appetite, mood, household safety, and confidence in cooking. Practical safeguards and follow-up for persistent symptoms can help protect daily life while the cause is treated or recovery continues.