When Your Sense of Smell Changes

Explore why your ability to smell may have changed and what can help.

Woman sitting at a kitchen table, holding a cup of coffee in her hands

When Your Sense of Smell Changes

Your sense of smell, also called olfaction, plays an important role in quality of life, safety, and the enjoyment of food. Anosmia refers to a complete loss of smell, while hyposmia means a reduced ability to smell. Because smell loss can have many different causes, identifying the underlying problem is an important first step toward treatment.

What Can Cause Smell Loss?

Nasal and Sinus Conditions

Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps are common causes of smell loss. Inflammation and blockage can prevent odors from reaching the olfactory receptors located high within the nasal cavity.

After a Viral Infection

Upper respiratory infections, including COVID-19, can affect the olfactory lining and lead to smell loss that may continue for months.

Head Injuries

Trauma to the head can damage the olfactory nerves and may result in permanent loss of smell.

Medications

Certain medications may interfere with the sense of smell.

Neurological Conditions

In some cases, a change in the sense of smell can be an early indication of a neurological condition.

Assessing Changes in Smell

Evaluation may include nasal endoscopy to look for polyps, inflammation, or physical obstruction. CT imaging may also be recommended when appropriate. Formal smell testing can help measure the severity of the loss.

Woman sitting in a chair with a man in a shirt and blue gloves examining her nose

Treatment Options for Smell Loss

Treatment is based on the underlying cause. When chronic sinusitis or nasal polyps are responsible, treating the underlying nasal or sinus condition medically or surgically may improve the sense of smell. Post-viral anosmia may resolve on its own or improve with olfactory training. When smell loss results from nerve damage, treatment can be more difficult.

When Your Sense of Smell Changes