Patients with COVID-19 have shown a wide range of symptoms, from mild to severe. The loss of smell and taste is common, and those recovering from COVID-19 often wonder when these senses will return. Read on to learn more!
When Will I Get My Smell & Taste Back After COVID-19?
LOSS OF SMELL AFTER COVID
The virus decreases function of the olfactory receptors, which are responsible for detecting odor molecules. Because research indicates that COVID-19 disrupts chromosomal regulation, it prevents these receptors from functioning properly – even after the virus is no longer detected.
No Smell A Few Weeks After Positive COVID Test?
For most people who have contracted COVID-19, loss of smell lasts a few weeks. But about 12% of people experience an ongoing reduction in the ability to smell or changes in how smells are perceived.
No Smell 6 Weeks or Longer After Having COVID?
If you still have absolutely no sense of smell after six weeks, visit your certified physician. There may be an underlying medical issue preventing your full recovery, like allergies or an infection. Smoking can also slow your recovery.
LACK OF TASTE AFTER COVID
Because the two senses are related, a loss of taste may result from the virus’s effect on the olfactory receptors in the nose. Many people with COVID-19 discover that the foods and beverages they used to love suddenly taste bad or different.
Common COVID Symptoms
Watch for these common symptoms of COVID-19:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
COVID-19 Prevention: How to Protect Yourself From COVID-19
The CDC recommends the following to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and keep your family healthy and safe:
- Get vaccinated
- Wear a mask
- Practice social distancing and keep 6 feet away from others
- Get tested after a possible exposure or if symptoms appear
- Wash your hands often
- Cover your mouth/nose when coughing and sneezing
- Clean and disinfect your home regularly, especially high-touch areas
- Follow recommendations for quarantine and isolation
- Review guidelines and take precautions when traveling
Where Can I Get A COVID-19 Test Near Me in Charleston?
NasonCare offers both PCR tests and rapid tests, right here next to Northwoods Mall! Our COVID-19 testing center is open every day, from 8am to 8pm – no appointment needed!
Discover A Good North Charleston COVID-19 Testing Center & Urgent Care, Visit NasonCare!
Our healthcare team is here to help, so come see us today! We’re proud to offer both PCR tests and rapid tests – and to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community.
Other medical services offered at NasonCare include:
Patient Services
Urgent Care
Primary Care
Employer Services
Meet Your NasonCare Physicians
Disclaimer: Information on this page is sourced from the CDC website. In the event of a discrepancy between the information on NasonCare.com and the CDC website, please follow CDC’s guidance.
Uninsured patients: Uninsured patients with no insurance should be aware that the HRSA’s COVID-19 Uninsured Program has stopped accepting claims for testing and treatment on March 22 at 11:59 p.m. ET and claims for vaccinations on April 5 at 11:59 p.m. Please contact NasonCare directly for details on out-of-pocket cost for covid testing for uninsured patients.
