A stuffy nose from a cold is a common cause for a partial, temporary loss of smell. A blockage in the nasal passages caused by a polyp or a nasal fracture also is a common cause. Normal aging can cause a loss of smell too, particularly after age 60. Show
What is smell?Your nose and an area in the upper throat have special cells that contain odor receptors. When these receptors detect smells, they send a message to the brain. The brain then identifies the specific smell. Any problem in this process — a stuffy nose, a blockage, inflammation, nerve damage or a brain function condition — can affect your ability to smell normally. Problems with the inner lining of your noseConditions that cause temporary irritation or congestion inside your nose may include:
Obstructions of your nasal passagesConditions or obstructions that block the flow of air through your nose can include:
Damage to your brain or nervesNerves leading to the area of the brain that detects smell or the brain itself can be damaged or deteriorate due to:
Causes shown here are commonly associated with this symptom. Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus
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. How do I get my smell back from a sinus infection?Your sense of smell may go back to normal in a few weeks or months. Treating the cause might help. For example, steroid nasal sprays or drops might help if you have sinusitis or nasal polyps. A treatment called "smell training" can also help some people.
How long does loss of smell from sinusitis last?Even with a full recovery from the acute nasal stuffiness that accompanies a cold or sinus infection, for some, a change in taste can last months. For an unfortunate few it can last years or even for the rest of their lives. It's called anosmia.
Can sinus infection cause smell and taste loss?Sinus infections lead to inflammation in the nose and therefore nasal stuffiness. Many sinus infections cause either full or partial loss of smell and taste. Sinus infections are typically treated with OTC pain medications and prescription antibiotics.
How do I know if I have Covid or a sinus infection?In comparison to sinusitis, COVID-19 is more likely to cause lung-related symptoms, especially cough, difficulty breathing, and chest pain. It's also more likely to cause a fever. In addition, loss of taste or smell is more likely to go along with COVID-19.
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Can you lose smell with sinus infection
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