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Last updated on 08/09/2022. Parosmia is a distorted sense of smell. It happens when smell receptor cells in your nose don’t detect odors or transmit them to your brain. Causes include bacterial or viral infections, head trauma, neurological conditions and COVID-19. Parosmia is usually temporary, but in some cases, it’s permanent. Advertisement Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. [Policy](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/advertising) Care at Cleveland Clinic [Smell Disorders Treatment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/smell-disorders-treatment) [Find a Doctor and Specialists](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/smell-disorders-treatment#featured-provider-panel) [Make an Appointment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/webappointment/what-to-expect) Contents [Overview](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23986-parosmia#overview)[Symptoms and Causes](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23986-parosmia#symptoms-and-causes)[Diagnosis and Tests](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23986-parosmia#diagnosis-and-tests)[Management and Treatment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23986-parosmia#management-and-treatment)[Outlook / Prognosis](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23986-parosmia#outlook-prognosis)[Prevention](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23986-parosmia#prevention)[Living With](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23986-parosmia#living-with) Contents [Overview](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23986-parosmia#overview)[Symptoms and Causes](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23986-parosmia#symptoms-and-causes)[Diagnosis and Tests](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23986-parosmia#diagnosis-and-tests)[Management and Treatment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23986-parosmia#management-and-treatment)[Outlook / Prognosis](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23986-parosmia#outlook-prognosis)[Prevention](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23986-parosmia#prevention)[Living With](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23986-parosmia#living-with) ## Overview ### What is parosmia? Parosmia is a condition that distorts your sense of smell. People with parosmia may be unable to experience the full range of scents in their environment. Or the odors they detect smell “wrong.” For instance, warm cookies from the oven — which smell sweet and delicious to most people — might smell unpleasant and rotten to people with parosmia. Advertisement Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. [Policy](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/advertising) You may hear people refer to this condition as [anosmia](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21859-anosmia-loss-of-sense-of-smell). But anosmia refers to a total loss of sense of smell. Anosmia and parosmia are both common symptoms of [COVID-19](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21214-coronavirus-covid-19), along with [dysgeusia](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22047-dysgeusia) (a distorted sense of taste) and [ageusia](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21850-ageusia-loss-of-sense-of-taste) (a total loss of sense of taste). #### How common is parosmia? Parosmia is a common condition, even more prevalent since the onset of COVID-19. In 2007, one study found that approximately 3.9% of adults experience parosmia at some point. A 2021 study — published over a year after the first COVID-19 case appeared in the U.S. — estimated that 40% to 75% of people with COVID-19 develop parosmia. In addition, the average onset for parosmia in people with COVID-19 is three months after the initial infection. Parosmia is a common long COVID symptom. ## Symptoms and Causes ### What are the symptoms of parosmia? Parosmia symptoms vary from person to person. Some cases are mild and short-lived. Others are severe and long lasting. In most cases, people start to notice parosmia symptoms after recovering from an infection. People with parosmia might: - Have trouble detecting certain scents in their environment. - Smell a foul odor, particularly when food is present. - Find previously pleasant scents overpowering and undesirable. ### What causes parosmia? There are several different conditions that can cause parosmia, including: Advertisement - COVID-19. - [Acute sinusitis](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15285-acute-sinusitis). - Head trauma. - [Nasal polyps](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15250-nasal-polyps). - [Common cold](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12342-common-cold). - [Influenza (flu)](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4335-influenza-flu). - Certain medications. - Chronic [dry mouth](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10902-dry-mouth-xerostomia) (xerostomia). - [Smoking](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/17488-smoking). - Chemical exposure. - [Cancer treatments](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/10257-chemotherapy-side-effects). - [Temporal lobe seizures](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17778-temporal-lobe-seizures). - [Brain tumors](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6149-brain-cancer-brain-tumor) (less common). #### Is parosmia contagious? While parosmia itself isn’t spreadable, the infections that cause it are contagious. To reduce your risk, be sure to distance yourself from anyone who’s sick and practice good hygiene habits. ## Diagnosis and Tests ### How do you test for parosmia? A healthcare provider, usually an otolaryngologist (ENT), will ask about your health history, including recent infections, current medications and lifestyle factors (such as smoking). Next, they’ll likely ask you to sniff different substances, and then describe the scent. In some cases, your healthcare provider may request additional tests, including: - Imaging tests, such as [MRI](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/4876-magnetic-resonance-imaging-mri) or a sinus [CT scan](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/4808-ct-computed-tomography-scan). - A [biopsy](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/15458-biopsy-overview) of sinus tissue. These tests can help your provider determine the underlying cause of parosmia so they can recommend appropriate care. ## Management and Treatment ### How do I fix parosmia? Parosmia treatment depends on the cause. While the vast majority of people eventually regain a partial or full sense of smell, a small number of people never do. #### Removing potential triggers If parosmia is the result of environmental factors — like smoking, medications or chemical exposure — your sense of smell will likely return once you remove those triggers. Be sure to consult your healthcare provider before stopping any medications. #### Medication In some cases, your provider may prescribe medication to ease parosmia symptoms. Research is ongoing, but studies suggest that these drugs may help restore your sense of smell: - [Phenytoin](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20270-phenytoin-capsules). - [Clonazepam](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19749-clonazepam-tablets). - [Topiramate](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20648-topiramate-tablets). - [Valproic acid](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18975-valproic-acid-capsules). #### Olfactory training therapy Also called “smell training,” this approach involves sniffing various substances for several seconds at a time. You repeat the process twice a day for several months. Your healthcare provider can let you know if this is an option for you. #### Parosmia surgery If parosmia is a symptom of nasal polyps or a brain tumor, then your healthcare provider may recommend surgery. Sometimes, a surgeon can remove the damaged sensory receptors in your nose to restore your sense of smell. But this is a complex procedure and the risks often outweigh the benefits. Explore your options thoroughly before deciding on treatment. Care at Cleveland Clinic [Smell Disorders Treatment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/smell-disorders-treatment) [Find a Doctor and Specialists](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/smell-disorders-treatment#featured-provider-panel) [Make an Appointment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/webappointment/what-to-expect) ## Outlook / Prognosis ### How long does parosmia last after COVID? Parosmia is one of the most common long COVID symptoms. According to one research study, people with COVID-related parosmia start to regain their sense of smell approximately 14 to 16 months after infection. ### Can parosmia be permanent? Yes. In some cases, parosmia is permanent. But full recovery is common. Ask your healthcare provider for details about your situation. Current research suggests that COVID-related parosmia is only temporary, though symptoms can last for a year or longer. Advertisement ## Prevention ### Can I prevent parosmia? Because parosmia is often the result of trauma, viruses and other uncontrollable factors, it’s not possible to prevent it completely. But if parosmia is due to environmental factors, like smoking or chemical exposure, removing those triggers should reduce or eliminate your symptoms. To reduce your risk of bacterial- and viral-related parosmia, wash your hands frequently and follow all U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations and guidelines. ## Living With ### When should I see my healthcare provider? Anytime you notice a distorted or absent sense of smell, you should schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider. They can determine why you have parosmia and whether you need treatment for an underlying condition. ### A note from Cleveland Clinic Parosmia is a distorted sense of smell. Things that used to smell pleasant now smell foul to people with parosmia. People get parosmia for many reasons, including infections, medications and trauma. You can’t always prevent it, but in most cases, it’s temporary. Because parosmia is a symptom of so many conditions, it’s important to get an evaluation from a healthcare provider. Advertisement [](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/)[](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/) [](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/)  ## Better health starts here Sign up for our Health Essentials emails for expert guidance on nutrition, fitness, sleep, skin care and more. [Example email](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/2ff943a2-abb1-4a1c-8ede-f8848703e789/HealthEssentials-SampleEmail-2026)[Sign up](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health-essentials-sign-up) [Sign up](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health-essentials-sign-up)[Example email](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/2ff943a2-abb1-4a1c-8ede-f8848703e789/HealthEssentials-SampleEmail-2026) ### Experts You Can Trust Medically Reviewed. Last updated on 08/09/2022. Learn more about the [Health Library](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/about) and our [editorial process](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/website/editorial-policy). ### References Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards. #### View Sources ### Experts You Can Trust Medically Reviewed. Last updated on 08/09/2022. ### References Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards. - Cavazzana A, Larsson M, Münch M, et al. Postinfectious olfactory loss: A retrospective study on 791 patients *(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28556265/)*. *Laryngoscope*. 2018 Jan;128(1):10-15. Accessed 8/9/2022. - Cohen J, Wakefield CE, Laing DG. Smell and Taste Disorders Resulting from Cancer and Chemotherapy *(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26881441/)*. *Curr Pharm Des*. 2016;22(15):2253-63. Accessed 8/9/2022. - Duyan M, Ozturan IU, Altas M. Delayed Parosmia Following SARS-CoV-2 Infection: a Rare Late Complication of COVID-19 *(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7998087/)*. *SN Compr Clin Med*. 2021;3(5):1200-1202. Accessed 8/9/2022. - Liu DT, Sabha M, Damm M, et al. Parosmia is Associated with Relevant Olfactory Recovery After Olfactory Training *(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33210732/)*. *Laryngoscope*. 2021 Mar;131(3):618-623. Accessed 8/9/2022. - Saniasiaya J, Narayanan P. Parosmia post COVID-19: an unpleasant manifestation of long COVID syndrome *(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33790036/)*. *Postgrad Med J*. 2021 Mar 31:postgradmedj-2021-139855. Accessed 8/9/2022. - Walker A, Kelly C, Pottinger G, et al. Parosmia-a common consequence of covid-19 *(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35477684/)*. *BMJ*. 2022 Apr 27;377:e069860. Accessed 8/9/2022. ### Care at Cleveland Clinic Having trouble smelling things? Cleveland Clinic’s smell disorder experts will craft a personalized treatment plan for you.  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### A note from Cleveland Clinic Parosmia is a distorted sense of smell. Things that used to smell pleasant now smell foul to people with parosmia. People get parosmia for many reasons, including infections, medications and trauma. You can’t always prevent it, but in most cases, it’s temporary. Because parosmia is a symptom of so many conditions, it’s important to get an evaluation from a healthcare provider. ### Experts You Can Trust Medically Reviewed. Last updated on 08/09/2022. Learn more about the [Health Library](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/about) and our [editorial process](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/website/editorial-policy). ### References Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards. #### ### Experts You Can Trust Medically Reviewed. Last updated on 08/09/2022. ### References Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards. - Cavazzana A, Larsson M, Münch M, et al. Postinfectious olfactory loss: A retrospective study on 791 patients *(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28556265/)*. *Laryngoscope*. 2018 Jan;128(1):10-15. Accessed 8/9/2022. - Cohen J, Wakefield CE, Laing DG. Smell and Taste Disorders Resulting from Cancer and Chemotherapy *(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26881441/)*. *Curr Pharm Des*. 2016;22(15):2253-63. Accessed 8/9/2022. - Duyan M, Ozturan IU, Altas M. Delayed Parosmia Following SARS-CoV-2 Infection: a Rare Late Complication of COVID-19 *(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7998087/)*. *SN Compr Clin Med*. 2021;3(5):1200-1202. Accessed 8/9/2022. - Liu DT, Sabha M, Damm M, et al. Parosmia is Associated with Relevant Olfactory Recovery After Olfactory Training *(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33210732/)*. *Laryngoscope*. 2021 Mar;131(3):618-623. Accessed 8/9/2022. - Saniasiaya J, Narayanan P. Parosmia post COVID-19: an unpleasant manifestation of long COVID syndrome *(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33790036/)*. *Postgrad Med J*. 2021 Mar 31:postgradmedj-2021-139855. Accessed 8/9/2022. - Walker A, Kelly C, Pottinger G, et al. Parosmia-a common consequence of covid-19 *(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35477684/)*. *BMJ*. 2022 Apr 27;377:e069860. Accessed 8/9/2022.