Lost/Changed Sense of Smell & Taste

Loss of smell (Anosmia) is a recognised sign of COVID-19, where half of people with COVID-19 may lose sense of smell. It is estimated that 9 in 10 people can expect a substantial improvement in their sense of smell within four weeks. In this video on ENT UK, Professor Claire Hopkins discusses loss of smell associated with COVID-19.

Changes to sense of smell are also associated with COVID-19 such as smelling things that are not there (Phantosmia) like smoke or burnt toast, reduced sense of smell (Hyposmia), and changes to the smell of things where things smell different and often unpleasant (Parosmia).

Loss or changed smell can have a huge impact on people.

A collaboration between the British Rhinological Society (BRS), ENT UK and UK charity AbScent, launched a resource called NoseWell, to support people with COVID-19 recover smell loss and changes. This includes support, advice videos, smell training, tips to make things easier, how to cope with disgusting smells, and you can download a guide to managing smell loss. All the advice and tips are also available as a free PDF to download from the NoseWell website.

Fifth Sense is a UK based charity supporting people affected by smell and taste disorders across the world, and provide direct support, advice, and signpost to potential diagnosis and treatment. They provide a SmellAbility Toolbox for testing and training changes to sense of smell, including COVID-19 smell testing, links to clinics that treat smell disorders, and videos on how to smell train at home.

Changes to taste can also impact quality of life and satisfaction eating. Life Kitchen! have created a free book with 18 recipes for people experiencing taste and smell changes as a result of Long COVID, which is available to download for free. If you are interested in learning more about a low histamine diet, the British Dietetic Association food allergy specialist group has guidance.

Date Last Revised: 5th January 2022