Loss of Taste and Smell: Symptoms and Recovery Tips

Q: Loss of Taste and Smell: Symptoms and Recovery Tips

Hello： Regarding the impact of COVID-19 on the sense of smell and taste, most individuals experience improvement within a few weeks to a month, but a small percentage may have persistent symptoms lasting up to six months. <br>Currently, there are no specific medications to treat

Loss of smell and taste?

Hello, my BMI is approximately 37.
I tested positive for COVID-19 on September 7 and had a telemedicine consultation with a Western medicine clinic on the same day, where I received medication (my only symptoms at that time were discomfort in my tonsils and a slight fever).
The doctor prescribed medication, but did not prescribe antiviral drugs since my symptoms were mild.
I also consumed Qingguan No.
1 herbal water that my family had previously purchased, followed by the Qingguan No.
1 herbal powder that my family received after their diagnosis.
On the morning of September 10, I noticed that I had lost my sense of smell and taste; I could not detect any flavors or odors from food, except that I could feel that chewing gum was cool, but I could not sense anything else.
What can I do while I am still in isolation? How long might it take for my sense of smell and taste to improve?

Xiao Ming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/09/11

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello: Regarding the impact of COVID-19 on the sense of smell and taste, most individuals experience improvement within a few weeks to a month, but a small percentage may have persistent symptoms lasting up to six months.
Currently, there are no specific medications to treat the changes in smell and taste caused by COVID-19.
Some studies suggest that supplementation with vitamin C, B vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce inflammatory responses affecting the sense of smell and taste.
Additionally, if there are symptoms of nasal congestion or allergies, nasal sprays or oral medications can be used to alleviate inflammation and swelling of the nasal mucosa, which may affect the sense of smell.

Reply Date: 2022/09/11

More Info

Loss of taste and smell, known medically as ageusia and anosmia respectively, can be distressing symptoms, particularly when they occur following a viral infection such as COVID-19 or influenza. Your experience of losing these senses after testing positive for COVID-19 is not uncommon, as many individuals report similar symptoms during and after their illness.

Understanding the Symptoms
The loss of taste and smell can occur due to several mechanisms. In the case of viral infections, the virus can cause inflammation in the nasal passages and damage the olfactory nerve, which is responsible for the sense of smell. This inflammation can also affect the taste buds on the tongue, leading to a diminished ability to taste. The fact that you can still perceive the cooling sensation of chewing gum suggests that your taste perception may not be entirely lost, but rather altered.

Recovery Timeline
Recovery from anosmia and ageusia can vary significantly among individuals. Some people may regain their senses within a few days to weeks, while others may take months. Research indicates that most individuals experience a gradual return of their senses, but the timeline can be influenced by factors such as the severity of the viral infection, overall health, and any pre-existing conditions.

What You Can Do During Isolation
While you are still in isolation, there are several steps you can take to potentially aid in the recovery of your taste and smell:
1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help keep your mucous membranes moist. This can assist in reducing inflammation in your nasal passages.

2. Practice Smell Training: This involves regularly exposing yourself to strong scents (like essential oils or spices) to stimulate your olfactory nerve. Smell training has shown promise in helping some individuals recover their sense of smell.

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Even if you cannot taste food, it is important to eat a balanced diet to support your immune system and overall health. Focus on nutrient-rich foods.

4. Avoid Irritants: Stay away from smoke, strong perfumes, and other irritants that could exacerbate nasal inflammation.

5. Consult a Specialist: If your symptoms persist beyond a few weeks, consider consulting an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist. They can provide a thorough examination and may recommend treatments such as nasal corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.

When to Seek Further Help
If you notice that your symptoms are not improving after a few weeks, or if you experience additional symptoms such as persistent nasal congestion, facial pain, or headaches, it is advisable to seek medical attention. These could be signs of a secondary infection or other complications that may require treatment.

Conclusion
In summary, while the loss of taste and smell can be alarming, it is often a temporary condition following viral infections. By staying hydrated, practicing smell training, and maintaining a healthy diet, you can support your recovery. If symptoms persist, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for further evaluation and management. Remember, recovery timelines can vary, so be patient with yourself as you navigate this process.

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