Loss of taste and smell has come into the spotlight because it can be asymptom of COVID-19.
However, there are lots of other disorders that can cause loss of taste or smell.
Whats Causing My Loss of Taste and Smell?
Dmitry Marchenko / EyeEm/ Getty Images
That root cause could be a number of things.
In some cases, a change to taste or smell can be an early warning sign of another condition.
Can Treatments or Medications Affect Taste or Smell?
Certain medical treatments and medications can affect your ability to taste and smell.
This is a doctor who specializes in the ears, nose, and throat.
Some tests measure the smallest amount of smell or taste that you’re free to detect.
Others ask you to correctly identify certain tastes or smells.
The Importance of Diagnosis
Losing smell or taste might sound minoruntil you experience it.
Smell and taste are both important for overall health.
A strong sense of smell can help you identify dangers like a gas leak or spoiled food.
A sense of taste is important for feeling satisfied while eating.
They will work to identify the cause of your loss.
That will determine what treatment is used.
If your loss is due to a medical issue, addressing that can help return your sense of smell.
This might mean changing medications, getting treatment for congestion, or starting an allergy medication.
you’ve got the option to also adopt lifestyle changes to enhance sensations of taste and smell.
Summary
Loss of taste and smell can happen for many reasons.
It might be due to a virus, including COVID-19.
But it can also be a warning sign for serious medical issues, including dementia or a concussion.
If you experience a loss of taste or smell, its important to talk with your healthcare professional.
They can help you treat what is causing it and determine if you need further care.
Its important to maintain a healthy diet even when your sensations are limited.
Talk to your healthcare provider about tips for enhancing satisfaction from meals.
In other cases, like with concussions or neurological conditions, the loss can last for months.
Rarely, it can be permanent.
Most people with COVID will get their sense of smell back within a month of losing it.
However, some people will experience permanent changes.
Yes, you might lose taste and smell with a cold.
This is usually due to nasal congestion and should resolve when congestion clears.
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