Loss or change of smell and taste

Changes to smell and taste are common during Covid-19, and for some people these changes can continue afterwards. You might notice a reduced sense of smell or taste, a distorted smell or taste, or smells that seem unpleasant or unfamiliar.

What it can feel like

  • smell or taste being weaker than before

  • foods tasting “bland” or different

  • smells seeming distorted or unpleasant (for example, things smelling smoky, chemical, or rotten)

  • changes that fluctuate over time

These symptoms can affect appetite, enjoyment of food, nutrition, and wellbeing.

RESOURCES

Fifth Sense, AbScent, Taste & Flavour: a free digital cookbook for people experiencing Long Covid-related loss or change of taste, created by the co-founders of Life Kitchen

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Breathing difficulties or changes

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Tinnitus and hearing changes