🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 3 (from laksa198)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa003.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/","crawl_time":1775730355,"first_indexed_time":1707669356,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,drganent!\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/ s443","src_root_hash":"14386543732633542203","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Loss Of Smell & Taste: Is It Covid-19 or Something Else? - Dr Gan Eng Cern","meta_descriptions":["While fever, dry cough, and fatigue are symptoms that have characterized Covid-19, there’s another symptom that seems to affect the majority of those testing"],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Allergy, Nose & Sinus\nMedically reviewed by\nDr Gan Eng Cern, MBBS, MRCS (Edin), MMed (ORL), FAMS\nWhile fever, dry cough, and fatigue are symptoms that have characterized Covid-19, there’s another symptom that seems to affect the majority of those testing positive – the loss of smell or taste.\nThe temporary loss or distortion of one’s sense of smell and taste has, most recently, been identified as a symptom of Covid-19 and could perhaps even be the first.\nHowever, other common ENT conditions such as\nsinusitis\n, common cold, and other upper respiratory tract infections can also rob you of these senses.\nA\nstudy\nreleased by the University of San Diego found that you’re 10 times more likely to test positive for Covid-19 if you lose both your senses of smell and taste. Hence, losing your sense of smell and taste could signal early signs of Covid-19.\nSince Covid-19 is a relatively new disease, little is known about the long-term outcome of patients with these symptoms. However, ongoing studies have provided some insight into what causes them, who experiences them and when we should be concerned.\nTable of Contents\nLet’s dive deeper into the loss of smell and taste\nHow does coronavirus cause the loss of smell?\nWhat do we know about the Covid-19 cases where these symptoms occur?\nWhat if you don’t experience other Covid-19 symptoms?\nLet’s dive deeper into the loss of smell and taste\nThe body’s chemical senses include smell, used to detect volatile odors, and taste, which recognizes food compounds such as sugars, salts, and amino acids.\nSmell and taste disorders have been around for far longer than before Covid-19 surfaced.\nCommon conditions include:\nAnosmia: loss of sense of smell\nAgeusia: loss of sense of taste\nHyposmia: reduced ability to smell\nBesides respiratory diseases such as Covid-19 and influenza, other conditions such as allergies, structural problems such as nasal polyps, and nerve issues could also result in one losing his or her sense of smell.\nThe loss of taste, on the other hand, is usually not impacted by viral upper respiratory infections but is rather closely intertwined with the loss of smell.\nRetronasal olfaction is the perception of smell that comes from when odours leave the mouth and enter the nose through the connecting passage in the throat.\nWhen we eat or drink, our brain combines this perception of smell with our perception of taste in the mouth to form flavour.\nHence, the loss of taste you experience could actually be more of a loss of flavour due to the reduced or absent ability to smell.\nScientists are still in the process of discovering if those with Covid-19 are actually losing their sense of taste temporarily or if it’s being impacted by their loss of smell.\nHow does coronavirus cause the loss of smell?\nIn most viral infections, the loss of smell is simply the result of a blocked nose – which prevents aroma molecules from reaching the olfactory receptors located in the nose. Hence, your sense of smell usually returns once your infection clears.\nHowever, for Covid-19 patients, the pattern of smell loss seems to be different.\nMost have reported a sudden loss of smell, followed by a full recovery within a week or two.\nWhat’s more interesting is that many of them said that their noses were clear – eliminating blocked nose as a possible cause.\nSo, why else could you lose your sense of smell?\nHere’s\nthe biology behind it:\nThe coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, infects the body by attaching to ACE2 receptors on the surface of cells such as the sustentacular cells that line the upper respiratory tract.\nSustentacular cells are cells that support the olfactory neurons – which transmit the signal from the aroma molecule in your nose to the area in your brain where these signals get interpreted as “smell”.\nA protein called TMPRSS2 on the surface of the sustentacular cells then helps the virus invade the cell. Once inside the cell, the virus replicates – triggering your immune system’s standard inflammatory response.\nAs a result, the immune system triggers swelling in the infected area. However, the olfactory neurons are left intact.\nHence, once the swelling subsides and the aroma molecules have a clear route to the undamaged receptors on these olfactory neurons, your sense of smell returns to normal.\nHowever, for some, their loss of smell was prolonged and didn’t return for several weeks.\nThis could be because, during inflammation, the body releases chemicals to destroy the affected tissues.\nWhen this inflammation is severe, other nearby cells start to get destroyed too – resulting in the damage of healthy olfactory neurons.\nHence, recovery is much slower since olfactory neurons need time to regenerate from the supply of stem cells within the lining of the nose.\nWhat do we know about the Covid-19 cases where these symptoms occur?\nPhysicians around the world are reporting that up to 70% of patients who test positive for Covid-19 are experiencing a loss of smell and taste – despite not having fever, cough, or other typical symptoms of the disease.\nAccording to this\nstudy\n, the loss of smell and taste also seems to be more prevalent in mild and moderate cases of Covid-19.\nWhat if you don’t experience other Covid-19 symptoms?\nWhile the loss of smell and taste can be caused by other conditions, it’s still important to remain alert and keep an eye out for other\nsymptoms\nof Covid-19.\nSince the loss of smell is one of the first (and sometimes only) symptoms in up to 25% of people diagnosed with Covid-19, it’s advisable to quarantine yourself and seek medical attention immediately if other symptoms appear over the next few days.\nIf you suspect you might be infected, go to the nearest Covid-19 testing facility accessible to you and get yourself tested.\nStay safe, stay healthy, and look out for your loved ones!","attrs_markdown":"#### Menu\n- [Home](https:\/\/drganent.com\/)\n- [About](https:\/\/drganent.com\/about-dr-gan\/)\n- [ENT Services](https:\/\/drganent.com\/services\/)\n  - [Ear Conditions](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/)\n    - [Ear infections](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/ear-infections\/)\n    - [Ear Lumps & Bumps](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/ear-lumps-bumps\/)\n    - [Foreign objects in the ear](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/foreign-objects-in-the-ear\/)\n    - [Giddiness and vertigo](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/giddiness-and-vertigo\/)\n    - [Hearing loss](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/hearing-loss\/)\n    - [Hole in the ear drum (Tympanic membrane perforation)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/hole-in-the-ear-drum-tympanic-membrane-perforation\/)\n    - [Impacted earwax](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/impacted-earwax\/)\n    - [Tinnitus](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/tinnitus\/)\n  - [Allergy, Sinus & Nose Conditions](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/)\n    - [Rhinitis (Sensitive Nose)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/rhinitis\/)\n    - [Sinusitis (or Rhinosinusitis)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/sinusitis\/)\n    - [Nasal polyps](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/nasal-polyps\/)\n    - [Deviated Nasal Septum (Bent or Crooked Nasal Septum)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/deviated-nasal-septum\/)\n    - [Inferior turbinate hypertrophy](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/inferior-turbinate-hypertrophy\/)\n    - [Nose cancer](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/nose-cancer\/)\n    - [Epistaxis (Nosebleed)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/epistaxis\/)\n  - [Throat Conditions](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/throat-conditions\/)\n    - [Benign vocal cord (Voice box) growths or lesions](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/throat-conditions\/benign-vocal-cord-voice-box-growths-or-lesions\/)\n    - [Throat Cancer](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/throat-conditions\/cancer-of-the-throat\/)\n    - [Mouth lesions](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/throat-conditions\/mouth-lesions\/)\n    - [Frequent tonsil infection (Recurrent tonsillitis)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/throat-conditions\/frequent-tonsil-infection-recurrent-tonsillitis\/)\n    - [Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/throat-conditions\/laryngopharyngeal-reflux-lpr\/)\n  - [Sleep Apnoea, Insomnia & Sleep Disorders](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/sleep-osa-conditions\/)\n  - [Children’s ENT](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/)\n    - [Ear infections](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/ear-infections\/)\n    - [Enlarged lymph nodes (Cervical lymphadenopathy)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/enlarged-lymph-nodes-cervical-lymphadenopathy\/)\n    - [Frequent tonsil Infections (Recurrent tonsillitis)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/frequent-tonsil-infections-recurrent-tonsillitis\/)\n    - [Paediatric: Hearing Loss](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/hearing-loss\/)\n    - [Impacted Earwax Removal for Children](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/impacted-earwax-removal\/)\n    - [Paediatric: Rhinitis](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/rhinitis-sensitive-nose\/)\n  - [Neck Conditions](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/neck-conditions\/)\n    - [Enlarged lymph nodes (Cervical lymphadenopathy)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/neck-conditions\/enlarged-lymph-nodes-cervical-lymphadenopathy\/)\n    - [Other head & neck lumps & bumps](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/neck-conditions\/other-head-neck-lumps-bumps\/)\n    - [Salivary gland and duct stones](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/neck-conditions\/salivary-gland-and-duct-stones\/)\n    - [Salivary gland lumps](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/neck-conditions\/salivary-gland-lumps\/)\n    - [Thyroid lumps (nodules)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/neck-conditions\/thyroid-lumps-nodules\/)\n- [Insurance](https:\/\/drganent.com\/billing-payment\/)\n- [Blog](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/)\n  - [Media](https:\/\/drganent.com\/media\/)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/drganent.com\/contact-us\/)\n\nSame-week appointments available · Call (65) 6253 7296 No referral needed · Medisave & insurers accepted\n\n[![SiteLogo](https:\/\/drganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/logo-w.svg)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/)\n\n- [Home](https:\/\/drganent.com\/)\n- [About](https:\/\/drganent.com\/about-dr-gan\/)\n- [ENT Services](https:\/\/drganent.com\/services\/)\n  - [Ear Conditions](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/)\n    - [Ear infections](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/ear-infections\/)\n    - [Ear Lumps & Bumps](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/ear-lumps-bumps\/)\n    - [Foreign objects in the ear](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/foreign-objects-in-the-ear\/)\n    - [Giddiness and vertigo](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/giddiness-and-vertigo\/)\n    - [Hearing loss](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/hearing-loss\/)\n    - [Hole in the ear drum (Tympanic membrane perforation)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/hole-in-the-ear-drum-tympanic-membrane-perforation\/)\n    - [Impacted earwax](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/impacted-earwax\/)\n    - [Tinnitus](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/tinnitus\/)\n  - [Allergy, Sinus & Nose Conditions](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/)\n    - [Rhinitis (Sensitive Nose)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/rhinitis\/)\n    - [Sinusitis (or Rhinosinusitis)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/sinusitis\/)\n    - [Nasal polyps](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/nasal-polyps\/)\n    - [Deviated Nasal Septum (Bent or Crooked Nasal Septum)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/deviated-nasal-septum\/)\n    - [Inferior turbinate hypertrophy](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/inferior-turbinate-hypertrophy\/)\n    - [Nose cancer](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/nose-cancer\/)\n    - [Epistaxis (Nosebleed)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/epistaxis\/)\n  - [Throat Conditions](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/throat-conditions\/)\n    - [Benign vocal cord (Voice box) growths or lesions](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/throat-conditions\/benign-vocal-cord-voice-box-growths-or-lesions\/)\n    - [Throat Cancer](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/throat-conditions\/cancer-of-the-throat\/)\n    - [Mouth lesions](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/throat-conditions\/mouth-lesions\/)\n    - [Frequent tonsil infection (Recurrent tonsillitis)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/throat-conditions\/frequent-tonsil-infection-recurrent-tonsillitis\/)\n    - [Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/throat-conditions\/laryngopharyngeal-reflux-lpr\/)\n  - [Sleep Apnoea, Insomnia & Sleep Disorders](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/sleep-osa-conditions\/)\n  - [Children’s ENT](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/)\n    - [Ear infections](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/ear-infections\/)\n    - [Enlarged lymph nodes (Cervical lymphadenopathy)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/enlarged-lymph-nodes-cervical-lymphadenopathy\/)\n    - [Frequent tonsil Infections (Recurrent tonsillitis)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/frequent-tonsil-infections-recurrent-tonsillitis\/)\n    - [Paediatric: Hearing Loss](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/hearing-loss\/)\n    - [Impacted Earwax Removal for Children](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/impacted-earwax-removal\/)\n    - [Paediatric: Rhinitis](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/rhinitis-sensitive-nose\/)\n  - [Neck Conditions](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/neck-conditions\/)\n    - [Enlarged lymph nodes (Cervical lymphadenopathy)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/neck-conditions\/enlarged-lymph-nodes-cervical-lymphadenopathy\/)\n    - [Other head & neck lumps & bumps](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/neck-conditions\/other-head-neck-lumps-bumps\/)\n    - [Salivary gland and duct stones](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/neck-conditions\/salivary-gland-and-duct-stones\/)\n    - [Salivary gland lumps](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/neck-conditions\/salivary-gland-lumps\/)\n    - [Thyroid lumps (nodules)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/neck-conditions\/thyroid-lumps-nodules\/)\n- [Insurance](https:\/\/drganent.com\/billing-payment\/)\n- [Blog](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/)\n  - [Media](https:\/\/drganent.com\/media\/)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/drganent.com\/contact-us\/)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%200%200'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![](https:\/\/drganent.com\/wp-content\/themes\/doctor_gn\/img\/mb-Search.svg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%200%200'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![](https:\/\/drganent.com\/wp-content\/themes\/doctor_gn\/img\/cancel.png)\n\n###### Allergy, Nose & Sinus\n# Loss Of Smell & Taste: Is It Covid-19 or Something Else?\n###### ![blog-img](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/%20https:\/\/drganent.com\/wp-content\/themes\/doctor_gn\/img\/checkmark_.svg) Medically reviewed by Dr Gan Eng Cern, MBBS, MRCS (Edin), MMed (ORL), FAMS\n\n![slider-img](https:\/\/drganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/covid-19-loss-smell.jpg)\n\nWhile fever, dry cough, and fatigue are symptoms that have characterized Covid-19, there’s another symptom that seems to affect the majority of those testing positive – the loss of smell or taste.\n\nThe temporary loss or distortion of one’s sense of smell and taste has, most recently, been identified as a symptom of Covid-19 and could perhaps even be the first.\n\nHowever, other common ENT conditions such as [sinusitis](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/sinusitis-complete-guide-ent\/), common cold, and other upper respiratory tract infections can also rob you of these senses.\n\nA [study](https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/full\/10.1002\/alr.22579) released by the University of San Diego found that you’re 10 times more likely to test positive for Covid-19 if you lose both your senses of smell and taste. Hence, losing your sense of smell and taste could signal early signs of Covid-19.\n\nSince Covid-19 is a relatively new disease, little is known about the long-term outcome of patients with these symptoms. However, ongoing studies have provided some insight into what causes them, who experiences them and when we should be concerned.\n\nTable of Contents\n\n[Toggle](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/)\n\n- [Let’s dive deeper into the loss of smell and taste](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/#Lets_dive_deeper_into_the_loss_of_smell_and_taste)\n- [How does coronavirus cause the loss of smell?](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/#How_does_coronavirus_cause_the_loss_of_smell)\n- [What do we know about the Covid-19 cases where these symptoms occur?](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/#What_do_we_know_about_the_Covid-19_cases_where_these_symptoms_occur)\n- [What if you don’t experience other Covid-19 symptoms?](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/#What_if_you_dont_experience_other_Covid-19_symptoms)\n## Let’s dive deeper into the loss of smell and taste\nThe body’s chemical senses include smell, used to detect volatile odors, and taste, which recognizes food compounds such as sugars, salts, and amino acids.\n\nSmell and taste disorders have been around for far longer than before Covid-19 surfaced.\n\nCommon conditions include:\n\n- Anosmia: loss of sense of smell\n- Ageusia: loss of sense of taste\n- Hyposmia: reduced ability to smell\n\nBesides respiratory diseases such as Covid-19 and influenza, other conditions such as allergies, structural problems such as nasal polyps, and nerve issues could also result in one losing his or her sense of smell.\n\nThe loss of taste, on the other hand, is usually not impacted by viral upper respiratory infections but is rather closely intertwined with the loss of smell.\n\nRetronasal olfaction is the perception of smell that comes from when odours leave the mouth and enter the nose through the connecting passage in the throat.\n\nWhen we eat or drink, our brain combines this perception of smell with our perception of taste in the mouth to form flavour.\n\nHence, the loss of taste you experience could actually be more of a loss of flavour due to the reduced or absent ability to smell.\n\nScientists are still in the process of discovering if those with Covid-19 are actually losing their sense of taste temporarily or if it’s being impacted by their loss of smell.\n\n## How does coronavirus cause the loss of smell?\nIn most viral infections, the loss of smell is simply the result of a blocked nose – which prevents aroma molecules from reaching the olfactory receptors located in the nose. Hence, your sense of smell usually returns once your infection clears.\n\nHowever, for Covid-19 patients, the pattern of smell loss seems to be different.\n\nMost have reported a sudden loss of smell, followed by a full recovery within a week or two.\n\nWhat’s more interesting is that many of them said that their noses were clear – eliminating blocked nose as a possible cause.\n\nSo, why else could you lose your sense of smell? [Here’s](https:\/\/www.sciencealert.com\/scientists-worked-out-how-covid-19-disrupts-some-people-s-smell) the biology behind it:\n\nThe coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, infects the body by attaching to ACE2 receptors on the surface of cells such as the sustentacular cells that line the upper respiratory tract.\n\nSustentacular cells are cells that support the olfactory neurons – which transmit the signal from the aroma molecule in your nose to the area in your brain where these signals get interpreted as “smell”.\n\nA protein called TMPRSS2 on the surface of the sustentacular cells then helps the virus invade the cell. Once inside the cell, the virus replicates – triggering your immune system’s standard inflammatory response.\n\nAs a result, the immune system triggers swelling in the infected area. However, the olfactory neurons are left intact.\n\nHence, once the swelling subsides and the aroma molecules have a clear route to the undamaged receptors on these olfactory neurons, your sense of smell returns to normal.\n\nHowever, for some, their loss of smell was prolonged and didn’t return for several weeks.\n\nThis could be because, during inflammation, the body releases chemicals to destroy the affected tissues.\n\nWhen this inflammation is severe, other nearby cells start to get destroyed too – resulting in the damage of healthy olfactory neurons.\n\nHence, recovery is much slower since olfactory neurons need time to regenerate from the supply of stem cells within the lining of the nose.\n\n## What do we know about the Covid-19 cases where these symptoms occur?\nPhysicians around the world are reporting that up to 70% of patients who test positive for Covid-19 are experiencing a loss of smell and taste – despite not having fever, cough, or other typical symptoms of the disease.\n\nAccording to this [study](https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/full\/10.1002\/alr.22592), the loss of smell and taste also seems to be more prevalent in mild and moderate cases of Covid-19.\n\n## What if you don’t experience other Covid-19 symptoms?\nWhile the loss of smell and taste can be caused by other conditions, it’s still important to remain alert and keep an eye out for other [symptoms](https:\/\/www.who.int\/health-topics\/coronavirus#tab=tab_3) of Covid-19.\n\nSince the loss of smell is one of the first (and sometimes only) symptoms in up to 25% of people diagnosed with Covid-19, it’s advisable to quarantine yourself and seek medical attention immediately if other symptoms appear over the next few days.\n\nIf you suspect you might be infected, go to the nearest Covid-19 testing facility accessible to you and get yourself tested.\n\nStay safe, stay healthy, and look out for your loved ones\\!\n\n## Related Articles\n- [Eight reasons why you should treasure your sense of smell – It is more important than you think\\!](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/eight-reasons-why-you-should-treasure-your-sense-of-smell-it-is-more-important-than-you-think\/)\n- [How Can a Stuffy Nose Cause Loss of Smell and Taste?](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/why-cant-i-smell-or-taste-well-during-a-cold-or-sinus-infection\/)\n- [Blocked nose – Top 3 reasons for a stuffy nose\\!](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/blocked-nose-top-3-reasons-for-a-stuffy-nose\/)\n\n## Read this next ...\n- [![blog-img](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%200%200'%3E%3C\/svg%3E) ![blog-img](https:\/\/drganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/giphy-4.gif)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/eight-reasons-why-you-should-treasure-your-sense-of-smell-it-is-more-important-than-you-think\/)\n  \n  Allergy, Nose & Sinus\n  \n  #### [Eight reasons why you should treasure your sense of smell – It is more important than you think\\!](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/eight-reasons-why-you-should-treasure-your-sense-of-smell-it-is-more-important-than-you-think\/)\n- [![blog-img](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%200%200'%3E%3C\/svg%3E) ![blog-img](https:\/\/drganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/shutterstock_181084100-768x512-1.jpg)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/why-cant-i-smell-or-taste-well-during-a-cold-or-sinus-infection\/)\n  \n  Allergy, Nose & Sinus\n  \n  #### [How Can a Stuffy Nose Cause Loss of Smell and Taste?](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/why-cant-i-smell-or-taste-well-during-a-cold-or-sinus-infection\/)\n- [![blog-img](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%200%200'%3E%3C\/svg%3E) ![blog-img](https:\/\/drganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/shutterstock_534182782-768x512-1.jpg)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/blocked-nose-top-3-reasons-for-a-stuffy-nose\/)\n  \n  Allergy, Nose & Sinus\n  \n  #### [Blocked nose – Top 3 reasons for a stuffy nose\\!](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/blocked-nose-top-3-reasons-for-a-stuffy-nose\/)\n\n[![footer-logo](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%200%200'%3E%3C\/svg%3E) ![footer-logo](https:\/\/drganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Dr-gan-Logo.svg)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/)\n\nOur ENT specialist clinic at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital provides  \n comprehensive care for all your ear, nose, and throat needs.\n\n38 Irrawaddy Road \\#08-45  \n Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital  \n Singapore 329563  \n [Call Us: +65 6253 7296](tel:+6562537296)\n\nFollow Us:\n\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%2022%2025'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![](http:\/\/drganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/facebook-square-brands.svg)](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/drganent\/)\n\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%2027%2024'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![](http:\/\/drganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/youtube-brands.svg)](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCigbk9oTcgSvmlJmPF8kFKA)\n\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%2022%2025'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![](https:\/\/drganent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Instagram.png)](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/drganengcern\/)\n\n[© Dr Gan Eng Cern. ENT Specialist Singapore. All Rights Reserved.](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/)\n\nAdult Ent\n\nEar Conditions\n\n- [Ear Infections](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/ear-infections\/)\n- [Ear Lumps & Bumps](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/ear-lumps-bumps\/)\n- [Foreign Objects in the Ear](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/foreign-objects-in-the-ear\/)\n- [Giddiness and Vertigo](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/giddiness-and-vertigo\/)\n- [Hearing Loss](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/hearing-loss\/)\n- [Hole in the Ear Drum](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/hole-in-the-ear-drum-tympanic-membrane-perforation\/)\n- [Impacted Earwax](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/impacted-earwax\/)\n- [Tinnitus](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/ear-conditions\/tinnitus\/)\n\nNose and Sinus Conditions\n\n- [Rhinitis](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/rhinitis-sensitive-nose\/) [Sinusitis](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/sinusitis\/)\n- [Nasal Polyps](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/nasal-polyps\/)\n- [Deviated Nasal Septum](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/deviated-nasal-septum\/)\n- [Inferior Turbinate Hypertrophy](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/inferior-turbinate-hypertrophy\/)\n- [Nose Cancer](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/nose-cancer\/)\n- [Epistaxis (Nosebleed)](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/nose-sinus-conditions\/epistaxis\/)\n\nThroat Conditions\n\n- [Benign Vocal Cord Growths](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/throat-conditions\/benign-vocal-cord-voice-box-growths-or-lesions\/)\n- [Throat Cancer](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/throat-conditions\/cancer-of-the-throat\/)\n- [Mouth Lesions](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/throat-conditions\/mouth-lesions\/)\n- [Tonsillitis](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/throat-conditions\/frequent-tonsil-infection-recurrent-tonsillitis\/)\n- [Laryngopharyngeal Reflux](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/throat-conditions\/laryngopharyngeal-reflux-lpr\/)\n\nSleep and OSA Conditions\n\n- [Sleep Apnoea](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/sleep-osa-conditions\/)\n\nNeck Conditions\n\n- [Enlarged Lymph Nodes](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/neck-conditions\/enlarged-lymph-nodes-cervical-lymphadenopathy\/)\n- [Other Head & Neck Lumps](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/neck-conditions\/other-head-neck-lumps-bumps\/)\n- [Salivary Gland and Duct Stones](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/neck-conditions\/salivary-gland-and-duct-stones\/)\n- [Salivary Gland Lumps](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/neck-conditions\/salivary-gland-lumps\/)\n- [Thyroid Nodules](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/neck-conditions\/thyroid-lumps-nodules\/)\n\nChildren ENT\n\nEar Conditions\n\n- [Ear Infections](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/ear-infections\/)\n\nNose and Sinus Conditions\n\n- [Enlarged Lymph Nodes](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/enlarged-lymph-nodes-cervical-lymphadenopathy\/)\n- [Frequent Tonsil Infections](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/frequent-tonsil-infections-recurrent-tonsillitis\/)\n- [Paediatric Hearing Loss](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/hearing-loss\/)\n- [Impacted Earwax Removal for Children](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/impacted-earwax-removal\/)\n- [Paediatric Rhinitis](https:\/\/drganent.com\/service\/childrens-ent-conditions\/rhinitis-sensitive-nose\/)\n\nUseful Links\n\n- [Home](https:\/\/drganent.com\/)\n- [ENT Services](https:\/\/drganent.com\/services\/)\n- [About](https:\/\/drganent.com\/about-dr-gan\/)\n- [Blog](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/drganent.com\/contact-us\/)\n- [Sitemap](https:\/\/drganent.com\/sitemap\/)\n- [Media](https:\/\/drganent.com\/media\/)\n\n[![whatsapp](https:\/\/drganent.com\/wp-content\/themes\/doctor_gn\/img\/whatsapp-logo.svg)](https:\/\/api.whatsapp.com\/send?phone=6590582480&text=Hi%2C+I%27m+interested+to+know+more+about%3A+https%3A%2F%2Fdrganent.com%2Fblog%2Floss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else%2F)\n\nTable of Contents\n\n[×](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/)\n\n- [Let’s dive deeper into the loss of smell and taste](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/#Lets_dive_deeper_into_the_loss_of_smell_and_taste)\n- [How does coronavirus cause the loss of smell?](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/#How_does_coronavirus_cause_the_loss_of_smell)\n- [What do we know about the Covid-19 cases where these symptoms occur?](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/#What_do_we_know_about_the_Covid-19_cases_where_these_symptoms_occur)\n- [What if you don’t experience other Covid-19 symptoms?](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/#What_if_you_dont_experience_other_Covid-19_symptoms)\n\n[→ Index](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/)","attrs_readable_markdown":"###### Allergy, Nose & Sinus\n###### ![blog-img](https:\/\/drganent.com\/wp-content\/themes\/doctor_gn\/img\/checkmark_.svg) Medically reviewed by Dr Gan Eng Cern, MBBS, MRCS (Edin), MMed (ORL), FAMS\n\nWhile fever, dry cough, and fatigue are symptoms that have characterized Covid-19, there’s another symptom that seems to affect the majority of those testing positive – the loss of smell or taste.\n\nThe temporary loss or distortion of one’s sense of smell and taste has, most recently, been identified as a symptom of Covid-19 and could perhaps even be the first.\n\nHowever, other common ENT conditions such as [sinusitis](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/sinusitis-complete-guide-ent\/), common cold, and other upper respiratory tract infections can also rob you of these senses.\n\nA [study](https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/full\/10.1002\/alr.22579) released by the University of San Diego found that you’re 10 times more likely to test positive for Covid-19 if you lose both your senses of smell and taste. Hence, losing your sense of smell and taste could signal early signs of Covid-19.\n\nSince Covid-19 is a relatively new disease, little is known about the long-term outcome of patients with these symptoms. However, ongoing studies have provided some insight into what causes them, who experiences them and when we should be concerned.\n\nTable of Contents\n\n- [Let’s dive deeper into the loss of smell and taste](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/#Lets_dive_deeper_into_the_loss_of_smell_and_taste)\n- [How does coronavirus cause the loss of smell?](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/#How_does_coronavirus_cause_the_loss_of_smell)\n- [What do we know about the Covid-19 cases where these symptoms occur?](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/#What_do_we_know_about_the_Covid-19_cases_where_these_symptoms_occur)\n- [What if you don’t experience other Covid-19 symptoms?](https:\/\/drganent.com\/blog\/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else\/#What_if_you_dont_experience_other_Covid-19_symptoms)\n## Let’s dive deeper into the loss of smell and taste\nThe body’s chemical senses include smell, used to detect volatile odors, and taste, which recognizes food compounds such as sugars, salts, and amino acids.\n\nSmell and taste disorders have been around for far longer than before Covid-19 surfaced.\n\nCommon conditions include:\n\n- Anosmia: loss of sense of smell\n- Ageusia: loss of sense of taste\n- Hyposmia: reduced ability to smell\n\nBesides respiratory diseases such as Covid-19 and influenza, other conditions such as allergies, structural problems such as nasal polyps, and nerve issues could also result in one losing his or her sense of smell.\n\nThe loss of taste, on the other hand, is usually not impacted by viral upper respiratory infections but is rather closely intertwined with the loss of smell.\n\nRetronasal olfaction is the perception of smell that comes from when odours leave the mouth and enter the nose through the connecting passage in the throat.\n\nWhen we eat or drink, our brain combines this perception of smell with our perception of taste in the mouth to form flavour.\n\nHence, the loss of taste you experience could actually be more of a loss of flavour due to the reduced or absent ability to smell.\n\nScientists are still in the process of discovering if those with Covid-19 are actually losing their sense of taste temporarily or if it’s being impacted by their loss of smell.\n\n## How does coronavirus cause the loss of smell?\nIn most viral infections, the loss of smell is simply the result of a blocked nose – which prevents aroma molecules from reaching the olfactory receptors located in the nose. Hence, your sense of smell usually returns once your infection clears.\n\nHowever, for Covid-19 patients, the pattern of smell loss seems to be different.\n\nMost have reported a sudden loss of smell, followed by a full recovery within a week or two.\n\nWhat’s more interesting is that many of them said that their noses were clear – eliminating blocked nose as a possible cause.\n\nSo, why else could you lose your sense of smell? [Here’s](https:\/\/www.sciencealert.com\/scientists-worked-out-how-covid-19-disrupts-some-people-s-smell) the biology behind it:\n\nThe coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, infects the body by attaching to ACE2 receptors on the surface of cells such as the sustentacular cells that line the upper respiratory tract.\n\nSustentacular cells are cells that support the olfactory neurons – which transmit the signal from the aroma molecule in your nose to the area in your brain where these signals get interpreted as “smell”.\n\nA protein called TMPRSS2 on the surface of the sustentacular cells then helps the virus invade the cell. Once inside the cell, the virus replicates – triggering your immune system’s standard inflammatory response.\n\nAs a result, the immune system triggers swelling in the infected area. However, the olfactory neurons are left intact.\n\nHence, once the swelling subsides and the aroma molecules have a clear route to the undamaged receptors on these olfactory neurons, your sense of smell returns to normal.\n\nHowever, for some, their loss of smell was prolonged and didn’t return for several weeks.\n\nThis could be because, during inflammation, the body releases chemicals to destroy the affected tissues.\n\nWhen this inflammation is severe, other nearby cells start to get destroyed too – resulting in the damage of healthy olfactory neurons.\n\nHence, recovery is much slower since olfactory neurons need time to regenerate from the supply of stem cells within the lining of the nose.\n\n## What do we know about the Covid-19 cases where these symptoms occur?\nPhysicians around the world are reporting that up to 70% of patients who test positive for Covid-19 are experiencing a loss of smell and taste – despite not having fever, cough, or other typical symptoms of the disease.\n\nAccording to this [study](https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/full\/10.1002\/alr.22592), the loss of smell and taste also seems to be more prevalent in mild and moderate cases of Covid-19.\n\n## What if you don’t experience other Covid-19 symptoms?\nWhile the loss of smell and taste can be caused by other conditions, it’s still important to remain alert and keep an eye out for other [symptoms](https:\/\/www.who.int\/health-topics\/coronavirus#tab=tab_3) of Covid-19.\n\nSince the loss of smell is one of the first (and sometimes only) symptoms in up to 25% of people diagnosed with Covid-19, it’s advisable to quarantine yourself and seek medical attention immediately if other symptoms appear over the next few days.\n\nIf you suspect you might be infected, go to the nearest Covid-19 testing facility accessible to you and get yourself tested.\n\nStay safe, stay healthy, and look out for your loved ones\\!","meta_canonical":null}

3. Robots.txt Check

Query:

Response:

4. Spam/Ban Check

Query:

Response:

5. Seen Status Check

ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled

📄

INDEXABLE

✅

CRAWLED

9 days ago

🤖

ROBOTS ALLOWED

Page Info Filters

Filter	Status	Condition	Details
HTTP status	PASS	`download_http_code = 200`	HTTP 200
Age cutoff	PASS	`download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH`	0.3 months ago
History drop	PASS	`isNull(history_drop_reason)`	No drop reason
Spam/ban	PASS	`fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0`	ml_spam_score=0
Canonical	PASS	`meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed`	Not set

Page Details

Property	Value
URL	https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/
Last Crawled	2026-04-09 10:25:55 (9 days ago)
First Indexed	2024-02-11 16:35:56 (2 years ago)
HTTP Status Code	200
Meta Title	Loss Of Smell & Taste: Is It Covid-19 or Something Else? - Dr Gan Eng Cern
Meta Description	While fever, dry cough, and fatigue are symptoms that have characterized Covid-19, there’s another symptom that seems to affect the majority of those testing
Meta Canonical	null
Boilerpipe Text	Allergy, Nose & Sinus Medically reviewed by Dr Gan Eng Cern, MBBS, MRCS (Edin), MMed (ORL), FAMS While fever, dry cough, and fatigue are symptoms that have characterized Covid-19, there’s another symptom that seems to affect the majority of those testing positive – the loss of smell or taste. The temporary loss or distortion of one’s sense of smell and taste has, most recently, been identified as a symptom of Covid-19 and could perhaps even be the first. However, other common ENT conditions such as sinusitis , common cold, and other upper respiratory tract infections can also rob you of these senses. A study released by the University of San Diego found that you’re 10 times more likely to test positive for Covid-19 if you lose both your senses of smell and taste. Hence, losing your sense of smell and taste could signal early signs of Covid-19. Since Covid-19 is a relatively new disease, little is known about the long-term outcome of patients with these symptoms. However, ongoing studies have provided some insight into what causes them, who experiences them and when we should be concerned. Table of Contents Let’s dive deeper into the loss of smell and taste How does coronavirus cause the loss of smell? What do we know about the Covid-19 cases where these symptoms occur? What if you don’t experience other Covid-19 symptoms? Let’s dive deeper into the loss of smell and taste The body’s chemical senses include smell, used to detect volatile odors, and taste, which recognizes food compounds such as sugars, salts, and amino acids. Smell and taste disorders have been around for far longer than before Covid-19 surfaced. Common conditions include: Anosmia: loss of sense of smell Ageusia: loss of sense of taste Hyposmia: reduced ability to smell Besides respiratory diseases such as Covid-19 and influenza, other conditions such as allergies, structural problems such as nasal polyps, and nerve issues could also result in one losing his or her sense of smell. The loss of taste, on the other hand, is usually not impacted by viral upper respiratory infections but is rather closely intertwined with the loss of smell. Retronasal olfaction is the perception of smell that comes from when odours leave the mouth and enter the nose through the connecting passage in the throat. When we eat or drink, our brain combines this perception of smell with our perception of taste in the mouth to form flavour. Hence, the loss of taste you experience could actually be more of a loss of flavour due to the reduced or absent ability to smell. Scientists are still in the process of discovering if those with Covid-19 are actually losing their sense of taste temporarily or if it’s being impacted by their loss of smell. How does coronavirus cause the loss of smell? In most viral infections, the loss of smell is simply the result of a blocked nose – which prevents aroma molecules from reaching the olfactory receptors located in the nose. Hence, your sense of smell usually returns once your infection clears. However, for Covid-19 patients, the pattern of smell loss seems to be different. Most have reported a sudden loss of smell, followed by a full recovery within a week or two. What’s more interesting is that many of them said that their noses were clear – eliminating blocked nose as a possible cause. So, why else could you lose your sense of smell? Here’s the biology behind it: The coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, infects the body by attaching to ACE2 receptors on the surface of cells such as the sustentacular cells that line the upper respiratory tract. Sustentacular cells are cells that support the olfactory neurons – which transmit the signal from the aroma molecule in your nose to the area in your brain where these signals get interpreted as “smell”. A protein called TMPRSS2 on the surface of the sustentacular cells then helps the virus invade the cell. Once inside the cell, the virus replicates – triggering your immune system’s standard inflammatory response. As a result, the immune system triggers swelling in the infected area. However, the olfactory neurons are left intact. Hence, once the swelling subsides and the aroma molecules have a clear route to the undamaged receptors on these olfactory neurons, your sense of smell returns to normal. However, for some, their loss of smell was prolonged and didn’t return for several weeks. This could be because, during inflammation, the body releases chemicals to destroy the affected tissues. When this inflammation is severe, other nearby cells start to get destroyed too – resulting in the damage of healthy olfactory neurons. Hence, recovery is much slower since olfactory neurons need time to regenerate from the supply of stem cells within the lining of the nose. What do we know about the Covid-19 cases where these symptoms occur? Physicians around the world are reporting that up to 70% of patients who test positive for Covid-19 are experiencing a loss of smell and taste – despite not having fever, cough, or other typical symptoms of the disease. According to this study , the loss of smell and taste also seems to be more prevalent in mild and moderate cases of Covid-19. What if you don’t experience other Covid-19 symptoms? While the loss of smell and taste can be caused by other conditions, it’s still important to remain alert and keep an eye out for other symptoms of Covid-19. Since the loss of smell is one of the first (and sometimes only) symptoms in up to 25% of people diagnosed with Covid-19, it’s advisable to quarantine yourself and seek medical attention immediately if other symptoms appear over the next few days. If you suspect you might be infected, go to the nearest Covid-19 testing facility accessible to you and get yourself tested. Stay safe, stay healthy, and look out for your loved ones!
Markdown	#### Menu - [Home](https://drganent.com/) - [About](https://drganent.com/about-dr-gan/) - [ENT Services](https://drganent.com/services/) - [Ear Conditions](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/) - [Ear infections](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/ear-infections/) - [Ear Lumps & Bumps](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/ear-lumps-bumps/) - [Foreign objects in the ear](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/foreign-objects-in-the-ear/) - [Giddiness and vertigo](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/giddiness-and-vertigo/) - [Hearing loss](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/hearing-loss/) - [Hole in the ear drum (Tympanic membrane perforation)](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/hole-in-the-ear-drum-tympanic-membrane-perforation/) - [Impacted earwax](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/impacted-earwax/) - [Tinnitus](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/tinnitus/) - [Allergy, Sinus & Nose Conditions](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/) - [Rhinitis (Sensitive Nose)](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/rhinitis/) - [Sinusitis (or Rhinosinusitis)](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/sinusitis/) - [Nasal polyps](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/nasal-polyps/) - [Deviated Nasal Septum (Bent or Crooked Nasal Septum)](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/deviated-nasal-septum/) - [Inferior turbinate hypertrophy](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/inferior-turbinate-hypertrophy/) - [Nose cancer](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/nose-cancer/) - [Epistaxis (Nosebleed)](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/epistaxis/) - [Throat Conditions](https://drganent.com/service/throat-conditions/) - [Benign vocal cord (Voice box) growths or lesions](https://drganent.com/service/throat-conditions/benign-vocal-cord-voice-box-growths-or-lesions/) - [Throat Cancer](https://drganent.com/service/throat-conditions/cancer-of-the-throat/) - [Mouth lesions](https://drganent.com/service/throat-conditions/mouth-lesions/) - [Frequent tonsil infection (Recurrent tonsillitis)](https://drganent.com/service/throat-conditions/frequent-tonsil-infection-recurrent-tonsillitis/) - [Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)](https://drganent.com/service/throat-conditions/laryngopharyngeal-reflux-lpr/) - [Sleep Apnoea, Insomnia & Sleep Disorders](https://drganent.com/service/sleep-osa-conditions/) - [Children’s ENT](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/) - [Ear infections](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/ear-infections/) - [Enlarged lymph nodes (Cervical lymphadenopathy)](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/enlarged-lymph-nodes-cervical-lymphadenopathy/) - [Frequent tonsil Infections (Recurrent tonsillitis)](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/frequent-tonsil-infections-recurrent-tonsillitis/) - [Paediatric: Hearing Loss](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/hearing-loss/) - [Impacted Earwax Removal for Children](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/impacted-earwax-removal/) - [Paediatric: Rhinitis](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/rhinitis-sensitive-nose/) - [Neck Conditions](https://drganent.com/service/neck-conditions/) - [Enlarged lymph nodes (Cervical lymphadenopathy)](https://drganent.com/service/neck-conditions/enlarged-lymph-nodes-cervical-lymphadenopathy/) - [Other head & neck lumps & bumps](https://drganent.com/service/neck-conditions/other-head-neck-lumps-bumps/) - [Salivary gland and duct stones](https://drganent.com/service/neck-conditions/salivary-gland-and-duct-stones/) - [Salivary gland lumps](https://drganent.com/service/neck-conditions/salivary-gland-lumps/) - [Thyroid lumps (nodules)](https://drganent.com/service/neck-conditions/thyroid-lumps-nodules/) - [Insurance](https://drganent.com/billing-payment/) - [Blog](https://drganent.com/blog/) - [Media](https://drganent.com/media/) - [Contact Us](https://drganent.com/contact-us/) Same-week appointments available · Call (65) 6253 7296 No referral needed · Medisave & insurers accepted [![SiteLogo](https://drganent.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/logo-w.svg)](https://drganent.com/) - [Home](https://drganent.com/) - [About](https://drganent.com/about-dr-gan/) - [ENT Services](https://drganent.com/services/) - [Ear Conditions](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/) - [Ear infections](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/ear-infections/) - [Ear Lumps & Bumps](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/ear-lumps-bumps/) - [Foreign objects in the ear](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/foreign-objects-in-the-ear/) - [Giddiness and vertigo](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/giddiness-and-vertigo/) - [Hearing loss](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/hearing-loss/) - [Hole in the ear drum (Tympanic membrane perforation)](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/hole-in-the-ear-drum-tympanic-membrane-perforation/) - [Impacted earwax](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/impacted-earwax/) - [Tinnitus](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/tinnitus/) - [Allergy, Sinus & Nose Conditions](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/) - [Rhinitis (Sensitive Nose)](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/rhinitis/) - [Sinusitis (or Rhinosinusitis)](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/sinusitis/) - [Nasal polyps](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/nasal-polyps/) - [Deviated Nasal Septum (Bent or Crooked Nasal Septum)](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/deviated-nasal-septum/) - [Inferior turbinate hypertrophy](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/inferior-turbinate-hypertrophy/) - [Nose cancer](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/nose-cancer/) - [Epistaxis (Nosebleed)](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/epistaxis/) - [Throat Conditions](https://drganent.com/service/throat-conditions/) - [Benign vocal cord (Voice box) growths or lesions](https://drganent.com/service/throat-conditions/benign-vocal-cord-voice-box-growths-or-lesions/) - [Throat Cancer](https://drganent.com/service/throat-conditions/cancer-of-the-throat/) - [Mouth lesions](https://drganent.com/service/throat-conditions/mouth-lesions/) - [Frequent tonsil infection (Recurrent tonsillitis)](https://drganent.com/service/throat-conditions/frequent-tonsil-infection-recurrent-tonsillitis/) - [Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)](https://drganent.com/service/throat-conditions/laryngopharyngeal-reflux-lpr/) - [Sleep Apnoea, Insomnia & Sleep Disorders](https://drganent.com/service/sleep-osa-conditions/) - [Children’s ENT](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/) - [Ear infections](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/ear-infections/) - [Enlarged lymph nodes (Cervical lymphadenopathy)](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/enlarged-lymph-nodes-cervical-lymphadenopathy/) - [Frequent tonsil Infections (Recurrent tonsillitis)](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/frequent-tonsil-infections-recurrent-tonsillitis/) - [Paediatric: Hearing Loss](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/hearing-loss/) - [Impacted Earwax Removal for Children](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/impacted-earwax-removal/) - [Paediatric: Rhinitis](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/rhinitis-sensitive-nose/) - [Neck Conditions](https://drganent.com/service/neck-conditions/) - [Enlarged lymph nodes (Cervical lymphadenopathy)](https://drganent.com/service/neck-conditions/enlarged-lymph-nodes-cervical-lymphadenopathy/) - [Other head & neck lumps & bumps](https://drganent.com/service/neck-conditions/other-head-neck-lumps-bumps/) - [Salivary gland and duct stones](https://drganent.com/service/neck-conditions/salivary-gland-and-duct-stones/) - [Salivary gland lumps](https://drganent.com/service/neck-conditions/salivary-gland-lumps/) - [Thyroid lumps (nodules)](https://drganent.com/service/neck-conditions/thyroid-lumps-nodules/) - [Insurance](https://drganent.com/billing-payment/) - [Blog](https://drganent.com/blog/) - [Media](https://drganent.com/media/) - [Contact Us](https://drganent.com/contact-us/) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%200%200'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![](https://drganent.com/wp-content/themes/doctor_gn/img/mb-Search.svg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%200%200'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![](https://drganent.com/wp-content/themes/doctor_gn/img/cancel.png) ###### Allergy, Nose & Sinus # Loss Of Smell & Taste: Is It Covid-19 or Something Else? ###### ![blog-img](https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/%20https://drganent.com/wp-content/themes/doctor_gn/img/checkmark_.svg) Medically reviewed by Dr Gan Eng Cern, MBBS, MRCS (Edin), MMed (ORL), FAMS ![slider-img](https://drganent.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/covid-19-loss-smell.jpg) While fever, dry cough, and fatigue are symptoms that have characterized Covid-19, there’s another symptom that seems to affect the majority of those testing positive – the loss of smell or taste. The temporary loss or distortion of one’s sense of smell and taste has, most recently, been identified as a symptom of Covid-19 and could perhaps even be the first. However, other common ENT conditions such as [sinusitis](https://drganent.com/blog/sinusitis-complete-guide-ent/), common cold, and other upper respiratory tract infections can also rob you of these senses. A [study](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/alr.22579) released by the University of San Diego found that you’re 10 times more likely to test positive for Covid-19 if you lose both your senses of smell and taste. Hence, losing your sense of smell and taste could signal early signs of Covid-19. Since Covid-19 is a relatively new disease, little is known about the long-term outcome of patients with these symptoms. However, ongoing studies have provided some insight into what causes them, who experiences them and when we should be concerned. Table of Contents [Toggle](https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/) - [Let’s dive deeper into the loss of smell and taste](https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/#Lets_dive_deeper_into_the_loss_of_smell_and_taste) - [How does coronavirus cause the loss of smell?](https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/#How_does_coronavirus_cause_the_loss_of_smell) - [What do we know about the Covid-19 cases where these symptoms occur?](https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/#What_do_we_know_about_the_Covid-19_cases_where_these_symptoms_occur) - [What if you don’t experience other Covid-19 symptoms?](https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/#What_if_you_dont_experience_other_Covid-19_symptoms) ## Let’s dive deeper into the loss of smell and taste The body’s chemical senses include smell, used to detect volatile odors, and taste, which recognizes food compounds such as sugars, salts, and amino acids. Smell and taste disorders have been around for far longer than before Covid-19 surfaced. Common conditions include: - Anosmia: loss of sense of smell - Ageusia: loss of sense of taste - Hyposmia: reduced ability to smell Besides respiratory diseases such as Covid-19 and influenza, other conditions such as allergies, structural problems such as nasal polyps, and nerve issues could also result in one losing his or her sense of smell. The loss of taste, on the other hand, is usually not impacted by viral upper respiratory infections but is rather closely intertwined with the loss of smell. Retronasal olfaction is the perception of smell that comes from when odours leave the mouth and enter the nose through the connecting passage in the throat. When we eat or drink, our brain combines this perception of smell with our perception of taste in the mouth to form flavour. Hence, the loss of taste you experience could actually be more of a loss of flavour due to the reduced or absent ability to smell. Scientists are still in the process of discovering if those with Covid-19 are actually losing their sense of taste temporarily or if it’s being impacted by their loss of smell. ## How does coronavirus cause the loss of smell? In most viral infections, the loss of smell is simply the result of a blocked nose – which prevents aroma molecules from reaching the olfactory receptors located in the nose. Hence, your sense of smell usually returns once your infection clears. However, for Covid-19 patients, the pattern of smell loss seems to be different. Most have reported a sudden loss of smell, followed by a full recovery within a week or two. What’s more interesting is that many of them said that their noses were clear – eliminating blocked nose as a possible cause. So, why else could you lose your sense of smell? [Here’s](https://www.sciencealert.com/scientists-worked-out-how-covid-19-disrupts-some-people-s-smell) the biology behind it: The coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, infects the body by attaching to ACE2 receptors on the surface of cells such as the sustentacular cells that line the upper respiratory tract. Sustentacular cells are cells that support the olfactory neurons – which transmit the signal from the aroma molecule in your nose to the area in your brain where these signals get interpreted as “smell”. A protein called TMPRSS2 on the surface of the sustentacular cells then helps the virus invade the cell. Once inside the cell, the virus replicates – triggering your immune system’s standard inflammatory response. As a result, the immune system triggers swelling in the infected area. However, the olfactory neurons are left intact. Hence, once the swelling subsides and the aroma molecules have a clear route to the undamaged receptors on these olfactory neurons, your sense of smell returns to normal. However, for some, their loss of smell was prolonged and didn’t return for several weeks. This could be because, during inflammation, the body releases chemicals to destroy the affected tissues. When this inflammation is severe, other nearby cells start to get destroyed too – resulting in the damage of healthy olfactory neurons. Hence, recovery is much slower since olfactory neurons need time to regenerate from the supply of stem cells within the lining of the nose. ## What do we know about the Covid-19 cases where these symptoms occur? Physicians around the world are reporting that up to 70% of patients who test positive for Covid-19 are experiencing a loss of smell and taste – despite not having fever, cough, or other typical symptoms of the disease. According to this [study](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/alr.22592), the loss of smell and taste also seems to be more prevalent in mild and moderate cases of Covid-19. ## What if you don’t experience other Covid-19 symptoms? While the loss of smell and taste can be caused by other conditions, it’s still important to remain alert and keep an eye out for other [symptoms](https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus#tab=tab_3) of Covid-19. Since the loss of smell is one of the first (and sometimes only) symptoms in up to 25% of people diagnosed with Covid-19, it’s advisable to quarantine yourself and seek medical attention immediately if other symptoms appear over the next few days. If you suspect you might be infected, go to the nearest Covid-19 testing facility accessible to you and get yourself tested. Stay safe, stay healthy, and look out for your loved ones\! ## Related Articles - [Eight reasons why you should treasure your sense of smell – It is more important than you think\!](https://drganent.com/blog/eight-reasons-why-you-should-treasure-your-sense-of-smell-it-is-more-important-than-you-think/) - [How Can a Stuffy Nose Cause Loss of Smell and Taste?](https://drganent.com/blog/why-cant-i-smell-or-taste-well-during-a-cold-or-sinus-infection/) - [Blocked nose – Top 3 reasons for a stuffy nose\!](https://drganent.com/blog/blocked-nose-top-3-reasons-for-a-stuffy-nose/) ## Read this next ... - [![blog-img](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%200%200'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![blog-img](https://drganent.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/giphy-4.gif)](https://drganent.com/blog/eight-reasons-why-you-should-treasure-your-sense-of-smell-it-is-more-important-than-you-think/) Allergy, Nose & Sinus #### [Eight reasons why you should treasure your sense of smell – It is more important than you think\!](https://drganent.com/blog/eight-reasons-why-you-should-treasure-your-sense-of-smell-it-is-more-important-than-you-think/) - [![blog-img](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%200%200'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![blog-img](https://drganent.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_181084100-768x512-1.jpg)](https://drganent.com/blog/why-cant-i-smell-or-taste-well-during-a-cold-or-sinus-infection/) Allergy, Nose & Sinus #### [How Can a Stuffy Nose Cause Loss of Smell and Taste?](https://drganent.com/blog/why-cant-i-smell-or-taste-well-during-a-cold-or-sinus-infection/) - [![blog-img](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%200%200'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![blog-img](https://drganent.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/shutterstock_534182782-768x512-1.jpg)](https://drganent.com/blog/blocked-nose-top-3-reasons-for-a-stuffy-nose/) Allergy, Nose & Sinus #### [Blocked nose – Top 3 reasons for a stuffy nose\!](https://drganent.com/blog/blocked-nose-top-3-reasons-for-a-stuffy-nose/) [![footer-logo](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%200%200'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![footer-logo](https://drganent.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Dr-gan-Logo.svg)](https://drganent.com/) Our ENT specialist clinic at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital provides comprehensive care for all your ear, nose, and throat needs. 38 Irrawaddy Road \#08-45 Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital Singapore 329563 [Call Us: +65 6253 7296](tel:+6562537296) Follow Us: [![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%2022%2025'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![](http://drganent.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/facebook-square-brands.svg)](https://www.facebook.com/drganent/) [![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%2027%2024'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![](http://drganent.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/youtube-brands.svg)](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCigbk9oTcgSvmlJmPF8kFKA) [![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%2022%2025'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![](https://drganent.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Instagram.png)](https://www.instagram.com/drganengcern/) [© Dr Gan Eng Cern. ENT Specialist Singapore. All Rights Reserved.](https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/) Adult Ent Ear Conditions - [Ear Infections](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/ear-infections/) - [Ear Lumps & Bumps](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/ear-lumps-bumps/) - [Foreign Objects in the Ear](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/foreign-objects-in-the-ear/) - [Giddiness and Vertigo](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/giddiness-and-vertigo/) - [Hearing Loss](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/hearing-loss/) - [Hole in the Ear Drum](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/hole-in-the-ear-drum-tympanic-membrane-perforation/) - [Impacted Earwax](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/impacted-earwax/) - [Tinnitus](https://drganent.com/service/ear-conditions/tinnitus/) Nose and Sinus Conditions - [Rhinitis](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/rhinitis-sensitive-nose/) [Sinusitis](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/sinusitis/) - [Nasal Polyps](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/nasal-polyps/) - [Deviated Nasal Septum](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/deviated-nasal-septum/) - [Inferior Turbinate Hypertrophy](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/inferior-turbinate-hypertrophy/) - [Nose Cancer](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/nose-cancer/) - [Epistaxis (Nosebleed)](https://drganent.com/service/nose-sinus-conditions/epistaxis/) Throat Conditions - [Benign Vocal Cord Growths](https://drganent.com/service/throat-conditions/benign-vocal-cord-voice-box-growths-or-lesions/) - [Throat Cancer](https://drganent.com/service/throat-conditions/cancer-of-the-throat/) - [Mouth Lesions](https://drganent.com/service/throat-conditions/mouth-lesions/) - [Tonsillitis](https://drganent.com/service/throat-conditions/frequent-tonsil-infection-recurrent-tonsillitis/) - [Laryngopharyngeal Reflux](https://drganent.com/service/throat-conditions/laryngopharyngeal-reflux-lpr/) Sleep and OSA Conditions - [Sleep Apnoea](https://drganent.com/service/sleep-osa-conditions/) Neck Conditions - [Enlarged Lymph Nodes](https://drganent.com/service/neck-conditions/enlarged-lymph-nodes-cervical-lymphadenopathy/) - [Other Head & Neck Lumps](https://drganent.com/service/neck-conditions/other-head-neck-lumps-bumps/) - [Salivary Gland and Duct Stones](https://drganent.com/service/neck-conditions/salivary-gland-and-duct-stones/) - [Salivary Gland Lumps](https://drganent.com/service/neck-conditions/salivary-gland-lumps/) - [Thyroid Nodules](https://drganent.com/service/neck-conditions/thyroid-lumps-nodules/) Children ENT Ear Conditions - [Ear Infections](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/ear-infections/) Nose and Sinus Conditions - [Enlarged Lymph Nodes](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/enlarged-lymph-nodes-cervical-lymphadenopathy/) - [Frequent Tonsil Infections](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/frequent-tonsil-infections-recurrent-tonsillitis/) - [Paediatric Hearing Loss](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/hearing-loss/) - [Impacted Earwax Removal for Children](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/impacted-earwax-removal/) - [Paediatric Rhinitis](https://drganent.com/service/childrens-ent-conditions/rhinitis-sensitive-nose/) Useful Links - [Home](https://drganent.com/) - [ENT Services](https://drganent.com/services/) - [About](https://drganent.com/about-dr-gan/) - [Blog](https://drganent.com/blog/) - [Contact Us](https://drganent.com/contact-us/) - [Sitemap](https://drganent.com/sitemap/) - [Media](https://drganent.com/media/) [![whatsapp](https://drganent.com/wp-content/themes/doctor_gn/img/whatsapp-logo.svg)](https://api.whatsapp.com/send?phone=6590582480&text=Hi%2C+I%27m+interested+to+know+more+about%3A+https%3A%2F%2Fdrganent.com%2Fblog%2Floss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else%2F) Table of Contents [×](https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/) - [Let’s dive deeper into the loss of smell and taste](https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/#Lets_dive_deeper_into_the_loss_of_smell_and_taste) - [How does coronavirus cause the loss of smell?](https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/#How_does_coronavirus_cause_the_loss_of_smell) - [What do we know about the Covid-19 cases where these symptoms occur?](https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/#What_do_we_know_about_the_Covid-19_cases_where_these_symptoms_occur) - [What if you don’t experience other Covid-19 symptoms?](https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/#What_if_you_dont_experience_other_Covid-19_symptoms) [→ Index](https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/)
Readable Markdown	###### Allergy, Nose & Sinus ###### ![blog-img](https://drganent.com/wp-content/themes/doctor_gn/img/checkmark_.svg) Medically reviewed by Dr Gan Eng Cern, MBBS, MRCS (Edin), MMed (ORL), FAMS While fever, dry cough, and fatigue are symptoms that have characterized Covid-19, there’s another symptom that seems to affect the majority of those testing positive – the loss of smell or taste. The temporary loss or distortion of one’s sense of smell and taste has, most recently, been identified as a symptom of Covid-19 and could perhaps even be the first. However, other common ENT conditions such as [sinusitis](https://drganent.com/blog/sinusitis-complete-guide-ent/), common cold, and other upper respiratory tract infections can also rob you of these senses. A [study](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/alr.22579) released by the University of San Diego found that you’re 10 times more likely to test positive for Covid-19 if you lose both your senses of smell and taste. Hence, losing your sense of smell and taste could signal early signs of Covid-19. Since Covid-19 is a relatively new disease, little is known about the long-term outcome of patients with these symptoms. However, ongoing studies have provided some insight into what causes them, who experiences them and when we should be concerned. Table of Contents - [Let’s dive deeper into the loss of smell and taste](https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/#Lets_dive_deeper_into_the_loss_of_smell_and_taste) - [How does coronavirus cause the loss of smell?](https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/#How_does_coronavirus_cause_the_loss_of_smell) - [What do we know about the Covid-19 cases where these symptoms occur?](https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/#What_do_we_know_about_the_Covid-19_cases_where_these_symptoms_occur) - [What if you don’t experience other Covid-19 symptoms?](https://drganent.com/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/#What_if_you_dont_experience_other_Covid-19_symptoms) ## Let’s dive deeper into the loss of smell and taste The body’s chemical senses include smell, used to detect volatile odors, and taste, which recognizes food compounds such as sugars, salts, and amino acids. Smell and taste disorders have been around for far longer than before Covid-19 surfaced. Common conditions include: - Anosmia: loss of sense of smell - Ageusia: loss of sense of taste - Hyposmia: reduced ability to smell Besides respiratory diseases such as Covid-19 and influenza, other conditions such as allergies, structural problems such as nasal polyps, and nerve issues could also result in one losing his or her sense of smell. The loss of taste, on the other hand, is usually not impacted by viral upper respiratory infections but is rather closely intertwined with the loss of smell. Retronasal olfaction is the perception of smell that comes from when odours leave the mouth and enter the nose through the connecting passage in the throat. When we eat or drink, our brain combines this perception of smell with our perception of taste in the mouth to form flavour. Hence, the loss of taste you experience could actually be more of a loss of flavour due to the reduced or absent ability to smell. Scientists are still in the process of discovering if those with Covid-19 are actually losing their sense of taste temporarily or if it’s being impacted by their loss of smell. ## How does coronavirus cause the loss of smell? In most viral infections, the loss of smell is simply the result of a blocked nose – which prevents aroma molecules from reaching the olfactory receptors located in the nose. Hence, your sense of smell usually returns once your infection clears. However, for Covid-19 patients, the pattern of smell loss seems to be different. Most have reported a sudden loss of smell, followed by a full recovery within a week or two. What’s more interesting is that many of them said that their noses were clear – eliminating blocked nose as a possible cause. So, why else could you lose your sense of smell? [Here’s](https://www.sciencealert.com/scientists-worked-out-how-covid-19-disrupts-some-people-s-smell) the biology behind it: The coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, infects the body by attaching to ACE2 receptors on the surface of cells such as the sustentacular cells that line the upper respiratory tract. Sustentacular cells are cells that support the olfactory neurons – which transmit the signal from the aroma molecule in your nose to the area in your brain where these signals get interpreted as “smell”. A protein called TMPRSS2 on the surface of the sustentacular cells then helps the virus invade the cell. Once inside the cell, the virus replicates – triggering your immune system’s standard inflammatory response. As a result, the immune system triggers swelling in the infected area. However, the olfactory neurons are left intact. Hence, once the swelling subsides and the aroma molecules have a clear route to the undamaged receptors on these olfactory neurons, your sense of smell returns to normal. However, for some, their loss of smell was prolonged and didn’t return for several weeks. This could be because, during inflammation, the body releases chemicals to destroy the affected tissues. When this inflammation is severe, other nearby cells start to get destroyed too – resulting in the damage of healthy olfactory neurons. Hence, recovery is much slower since olfactory neurons need time to regenerate from the supply of stem cells within the lining of the nose. ## What do we know about the Covid-19 cases where these symptoms occur? Physicians around the world are reporting that up to 70% of patients who test positive for Covid-19 are experiencing a loss of smell and taste – despite not having fever, cough, or other typical symptoms of the disease. According to this [study](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/alr.22592), the loss of smell and taste also seems to be more prevalent in mild and moderate cases of Covid-19. ## What if you don’t experience other Covid-19 symptoms? While the loss of smell and taste can be caused by other conditions, it’s still important to remain alert and keep an eye out for other [symptoms](https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus#tab=tab_3) of Covid-19. Since the loss of smell is one of the first (and sometimes only) symptoms in up to 25% of people diagnosed with Covid-19, it’s advisable to quarantine yourself and seek medical attention immediately if other symptoms appear over the next few days. If you suspect you might be infected, go to the nearest Covid-19 testing facility accessible to you and get yourself tested. Stay safe, stay healthy, and look out for your loved ones\!
Shard	3 (laksa)
Root Hash	14386543732633542203
Unparsed URL	com,drganent!/blog/loss-of-smell-taste-is-it-covid-19-or-something-else/ s443