Loss of smell

Loss of smell — medically called anosmia — can happen for several reasons, ranging from mild and temporary to more serious causes.

Common Causes

1. Nasal or sinus issues (most common):

   • Colds or flu (viral infections)

   • Allergies (hay fever)

   • Sinus infections

   • Nasal polyps or deviated septum

   • Chronic sinusitis
     

2. Post-viral anosmia:

   • After a viral infection (like COVID-19 or influenza), the olfactory nerve can be temporarily or permanently affected.
     

3. Neurological causes:

   • Head injury (can damage the olfactory nerves)

   • Neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease)
     

4. Exposure-related causes:

   • Smoking

   • Toxic chemicals or certain medications (like some antibiotics or antihypertensives)
     

Consult Now

1. Aging:

   • Sense of smell naturally decreases with age.
     

2. What You Can Do

   • If it’s recent and linked to a cold or allergy: Try saline nasal rinses, steam inhalation, or over-the-counter decongestants (for short-term use only).
     

   • Avoid irritants: Smoke, strong odors, or chemical exposure.

   • If persistent (more than 2–4 weeks):

     • See an ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat) specialist.

     • They may do nasal endoscopy or imaging (CT/MRI).

     • Smell retraining therapy can sometimes help restore function after viral loss.
       

Consult Now

1. Seek medical attention urgently if:

   • You also have sudden headache, vision changes, or facial pain.

   • You lost smell suddenly after a head injury.

   • You have neurological symptoms (confusion, balance issues).