COVID loss of smell, or anosmia, is a common and often distressing symptom of long COVID. For many patients with long COVID, the inability to detect odors persists for weeks or months, impacting appetite, nutrition, and emotional well-being. The symptom may appear during infection or develop later, and it can sometimes persist even when other COVID symptoms have resolved.
The Spero Clinic explains the role of nervous system dysregulation in Long COVID, including how sensory pathways may be affected, contributing to persistent olfactory changes.
COVID-19 can affect cranial nerves responsible for smell, as well as central nervous system processing. Changes in nerve signaling, combined with lingering inflammation, may lead to persistent anosmia. This explains why patients often ask how long loss of smell lasts with COVID. Duration varies widely, with some individuals recovering within weeks and others experiencing prolonged sensory disruption.
There are many different treatment routes that patients coping with COVID loss of smell can take. There are also things individuals can do or change in their daily routines that can help in the event they suffer from loss of smell as a result of COVID-19. Some steps to support recovery may include:
These strategies, when combined with professional guidance and expert treatment for COVID, can help optimize recovery and improve overall quality of life.
Disclaimer: The information written on this website is designed to provide helpful information on various conditions and the subjects discussed. This website is not meant to be used to diagnose or treat any medical condition or to replace the advice of your physician(s). The author of this website does not claim to treat, diagnose or cure Long COVID, CRPS, EDS/POTS, AMPS, or any other specific condition or infection. The Spero Clinic treats the central nervous system only, often resulting in the body being able to heal itself.
You should regularly consult a physician in matters relating to your health, particularly with respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention. For diagnosis or treatment of any medical problem, consult your own physician(s).
Start your patient journey with the Spero Clinic's neurologic rehabilitation program.
