Loss of smell was a common symptom of the early coronavirus variants, and for some, this loss persists even after recovery. A recent scientific review found that millions of people are still struggling with their sense of smell or taste after several months. Health experts are concerned that this may have emotional and psychological effects. Thankfully, potential treatment options for smell loss are available.*

Long-term loss of smell

In the review, researchers collected data from 18 different studies from around the globe, including almost 3,700 patients. Here are some of their findings:

• About 75% of people who lost their sense of smell or taste during COVID-19 regained their ability within 30 days. Almost 96% recovered within six months.
• Nearly 5% of COVID-19 patients, about 27 million people, struggle with long-term loss of smell or taste.
• Women were more likely to experience persistent loss of smell than men.
• Those with greater nasal congestion were also more likely than those with less.

It’s common for the coronavirus to cause swelling in the upper nasal cavity, where smells are processed. Researchers are still studying the virus’ effect on smell, but it’s thought that it attacks cells that support the olfactory neurons, the electrical messengers that send sensory information regarding smells to your brain.

The emotional and psychological toll

Losing the ability to smell can affect some people’s emotional and psychological well-being. Dr. Aria Jafari, a rhinologist at the UW Medicine Sinus Center in Seattle, says her patients are often deeply upset about the loss.

“The most common thing I hear is that it leads to social isolation and feeling disconnected from the world and society as they know it,” says Jafari. “That can be really bothersome.”

Our sense of smell is involved in many aspects of life, from how we enjoy our food, to choosing romantic relationships, to our everyday interactions with the world around us. Jafari says that people who have lost their sense of smell or taste tend to have higher rates of depression, anxiety, and psychiatric illness. 

Treatment options

Being unable to smell may interfere with daily life, but there are treatments that may be able to help. Some options include:

• Structured olfactory training (retraining your brain to recognize smells with essential oils)
• Omega-3 fatty acid supplements
• Platelet-rich plasma nasal injections
• Electrical stimulation

If you’re still struggling with your sense of smell weeks or months after having COVID-19, speak with your doctor. They can help you find a treatment option that may work for you.

*Bush, E. (2022, July 27). Millions still without sense of smell or taste after Covid-19. MSN. https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/medical/millions-still-without-sense-of-smell-or-taste-after-covid-19/ar-AA102mGb?

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