General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
After Covid, some people can no longer smell things or perceive distorted smells. This can also change how flavours are perceived. Describe the change carefully; on its own, it does not establish the current cause.
Distinguish a smell you cannot detect from one you notice but cannot recognise or find unpleasant. Note whether the problem fluctuates and when it began. This helps your doctor assess smell rather than describing everything as “I have lost my taste”.
If the problem persists, discuss it with your usual doctor. They also consider other causes and tailor assessment to your situation. A two-month reference for specialist referral does not mean you must wait that long before seeking initial advice.
Loss of smell with nosebleeds, blockage on one side, or unusual headaches calls for ENT assessment as soon as possible. Also mention if there was no viral illness: these situations must not automatically be attributed to Covid.
For a problem lasting beyond two months, the doctor may arrange ENT assessment. This can test smell detection and recognition and examine the nasal passages; the specialist decides whether further tests are needed.
Olfactory rehabilitation can be part of personalised care. Ask for guidance and agree on follow-up: recovery is not guaranteed. Do not turn an old prescription sheet into a home recipe or use corticosteroids on your own.
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