Also known as: Anosmia
Loss of smell is a partial or complete inability to detect odours. It can be temporary from congestion or infections, or persistent from nerve damage.
The sense of smell relies on olfactory neurons in the upper nasal cavity detecting airborne molecules. Loss can occur from obstruction blocking access to these neurons or from damage to the neurons themselves.
COVID-19 brought anosmia into public awareness, with up to 85% of infected individuals experiencing some smell loss. Most recover within weeks, but some experience prolonged or permanent changes.
Smell loss significantly impacts quality of life beyond the obvious — it affects taste (most flavour perception relies on smell), safety (inability to detect gas leaks, smoke, or spoiled food), and emotional wellbeing.
There are several possible reasons you may be experiencing Loss of Smell. Here are the most common ones.
Viruses cause nasal swelling that blocks access to olfactory neurons, usually resolving as the infection clears.
SARS-CoV-2 damages supporting cells around olfactory neurons, causing smell loss that may persist for weeks or months.
Benign growths in the nasal passages physically block airflow to olfactory receptors.
Trauma can sever or damage the olfactory nerve fibres where they pass through the skull base.
These approaches may help manage loss of smell at home. Always consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen.
Repeatedly sniffing a set of strong scents (rose, lemon, clove, eucalyptus) twice daily for 20 seconds each can help retrain the olfactory system.
Nasal saline irrigation clears mucus and reduces congestion.
Breathing moist air can relieve congestion blocking olfactory access.
Nasal endoscopy, smell identification tests, CT scan for polyps or sinus disease, and MRI if nerve damage suspected.
See a doctor if smell loss is sudden without congestion, persists more than 2 weeks after a cold, or follows a head injury.
Steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of experiencing loss of smell.
Get vaccinated against respiratory infections
Wear a helmet during high-risk activities
Treat nasal polyps and sinusitis
Avoid prolonged exposure to harmful fumes
Most people recover smell within 2-3 months. Smell training can accelerate recovery. Persistent cases should be evaluated.
Yes, from severe head injury or nerve damage. However, olfactory neurons can regenerate, and some recovery may occur over months to years.
Yes. Up to 80% of what we perceive as taste is actually smell. Anosmia significantly reduces flavour perception.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.