---
title: "Loss of smell: When to See a GP | HealthAnswers"
description: "Loss of smell (anosmia) is often caused by colds, COVID-19 or sinus problems and usually returns as you recover. Find out what helps and when to see a GP."
url: https://healthanswers.co.uk/symptoms/loss-of-smell/
robots: noindex
---

# Loss of smell: When to See a GP | HealthAnswers

Symptoms

Loss of smell (anosmia) is often caused by colds, COVID-19 or sinus problems and usually returns as you recover. Find out what helps and when to see a GP.

Written by HealthAnswers editorial team Medically reviewed by [HealthAnswers UK doctor review panel](https://healthanswers.co.uk/our-doctors/) Reviewed 3 July 2026

## Quick answer

What could loss of smell mean? Loss of smell (anosmia) is the reduced or absent ability to smell, most often caused by colds, COVID-19 or sinus problems. It is usually temporary and improves as the infection clears. See a GP if your sense of smell has not returned after a few weeks.

General UK health information, not a diagnosis. In an emergency call 999 ; for urgent advice use [NHS 111](https://111.nhs.uk/) (GP out-of-hours in Northern Ireland).

On this page 4 sections

## Common causes of loss of smell

- Viral infections such as colds are a common cause of smell loss.
- COVID-19 frequently affects the sense of smell, usually temporarily.
- Nasal polyps can block odours from reaching the smell receptors.
- Working smoke and gas alarms are essential if you cannot smell.
- Smell training, sniffing distinct scents daily, may help recovery after viral smell loss.

## Understanding loss of smell (anosmia)

Loss of smell, known medically as anosmia, affects how food tastes and can also affect your safety, because smell helps to warn you of hazards such as smoke or a gas leak. It most often develops after a viral infection such as a cold or [COVID-19](https://healthanswers.co.uk/conditions/covid-19/).

## Causes of smell loss

Viral infections, [sinusitis](https://healthanswers.co.uk/conditions/sinusitis/), nasal polyps and head injury can all cause a loss of smell. Neurological conditions are a less common cause.

## Recovery and treatment for loss of smell

Treating any underlying nasal disease, such as sinusitis or polyps, helps the sense of smell to recover. Smell training — sniffing a set of distinct scents each day — may also help after viral smell loss, if it is advised for you.

## When to see a GP about loss of smell

See a GP if your sense of smell does not return within a few weeks. You may be referred to a specialist if nasal polyps or chronic sinus disease are suspected.

## ! When to get medical help for loss of smell

See a GP if your sense of smell has not returned after a few weeks. Call **111** for urgent advice when you are unsure what to do.

## Common questions about loss of smell

Why do I lose my sense of smell when I have a cold? During a cold, congestion blocks odours from reaching the smell receptors in the nose. Your sense of smell usually improves as the congestion clears. Is loss of smell common after COVID-19? Yes, loss of smell is a common symptom of COVID-19. Most people recover their sense of smell within weeks to months, although some have longer-lasting symptoms. What is smell training and does it help? Smell training involves sniffing a set of distinct scents every day. It may aid recovery of the sense of smell after a viral infection. How can I stay safe if I have lost my sense of smell? Check use-by dates on food rather than relying on your sense of smell. Make sure your home has working smoke alarms and gas alarms.

## Sources

- [NHS — Lost or changed sense of smell](https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/lost-or-changed-sense-smell/)
- [NHS — Sinusitis](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sinusitis/)

## How we reviewed this page

Medically reviewed by the [HealthAnswers UK doctor review panel](https://healthanswers.co.uk/our-doctors/)

First published 28 June 2026 Medically reviewed 3 July 2026 Next review due 3 July 2029 or sooner if NHS or NICE guidance changes

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