Lost sense of smell

[ExistentialExistenceExactly]

I had a nasty cold and cough at the end of November for about 10 days and realised afterwards I still can’t smell things. I assumed it would come back eventually but it’s been about 6 weeks now so it’s not looking hopeful ☹️

Has this happened to anyone else? I know it’s not as scary as losing other senses but it’s ever so strange.

Not sure whether to make GP appt as I’m worried I’d be wasting their time.

Thanks

Worth seeing them for. You could have a sinus blockage x

I've lost my sense of smell almost completely. I can't smell natural smells (cut grass, flowers, etc) very well unless really concentrating and the smell being really strong but can usually detect perfumes and other fake smells. This happened after a horrendous bout of sinusitis but not 100% this was the cause. Also happened to my dad and grandad so gp wasn't concerned and said this can be hereditary. Did have a good look up my nose to make sure there were no polyps or anything. I could ask for ent referral for investigation but I'm so used to it now it doesn't bother me too much (about 6 years). It was probably months before I realised it hadn't come back. I still taste things pretty well. The main thing I'm wary of is that I can't smell gas/smoke etc.

Make an appointment with your GP and ask for referral if they seem dismissive.

I lost mine about 10 years ago when I started to smell unpleasant smells. Luckily these eventually disappeared but was left without a sense of smell. Only recently some has come back but very poor compared to before. I still don't know what caused it.

Funnily enough I am going to see the doctor because I've lost my sense of smell to . I realised this over Christmas as I couldn't smell a dirty nappy whilst I was changing it. I've had a cold recently but it's gradually gone downhill for years.