Loss of smell (anosmia)

Overview

Taste often seems off too.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Loss of smell
• Loss of taste or smell

Less common

• Food tastes bland

When to get medical care

Causes

Viruses, sinuses, aging.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Older age

Diagnosis

A clinician checks the nose.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Smell test:

Treatment

Try smell training.

Self-care

• Sniff 4 strong scents twice a day for months
• Use smoke and gas detectors
• Check food dates

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an ENT doctor (ear, nose, and throat doctor).

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Often returns.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Loss of smell (anosmia)