Lost sense of smell and taste.

[CoffeeInAnIV]

I've had a cold for two days. Think mass amounts of mucus in the nose, headache, fatigue - worst cold I've had in about ten years kind of thing.

I was in the bath steaming my sinuses when I realised I couldn't smell my coconut and macadamia hair mask. Tried the tea tree shower gel - nothing. Nose is sniffly but clear. Also tried to gargle mouthwash. Tasted tingly but no actual taste.

I need a test, don't I?

Yes you do.

Sorry, should add that my father who I've just been on the phone to thinks because anosmia can be present in colds too that I shouldn't self isolate or get a test. He's wrong, right?

Yes I'd say so.

Headache is a covid symptom too..

I've ordered a home test so hopefully that'll be here soon and I work from home so I can self isolate. Just my silly father thinking I'm being dramatic.

I had this in early February, DH and DD1 too, before it was classed as a symptom.

I agree you should test, fingers crossed it’s negative.

If it is negative, can the kids go back to school upon a negative test (had sniffles for one day but are symptom free as of two days ago) or do they need to complete the isolation process?

Your Dad is wrong. Most people present with these symptoms before one of the 'Big Three'

As for the kids. I'd say as you aren't isolating because of having contact with someone positive, but having 'symptoms' if you're negative then they don't need to isolate. But if I could, I'd keep them home.

I always lose my sense of taste and smell when I catch a cold.

Best to get tested though just incase!
Good luck

They're staying home for the rest of the week at least. I feel terrible because DD1 had a cold on Saturday and was unwell until Sunday then brightened up Sunday evening with no further symptoms. I sent her into school and she's been fine. DD2 had no symptoms of anything and went to school and now they're both off but saying they feel fine.

Father says I'm being selfish, it's not covid and they should be in school. I get that but also anosmia is new to me and needs a test. Better to be safe to protect everyone than not to be.

You’re right, he’s wrong.

Good luck!

You are following the guidelines. Your entire household needs to stay home until you get your results. Feel better.

I lost my sense of taste and smell, did a test the same day and 4 days later got a positive test! Followed by headaches, cold symptoms and a cough coming up now. It's been a week since I got symptoms

I too thought it was a cold but thank goodness I did the test