A guideline from the British Rhinological Society

This information is sourced from ENT UK:

Key points for management of anosmia/loss of smell (LOS):

• Covid status should be established through history/PCR/serology in patients with LOS if possible
• Olfactory training and support Olfactory training is recommended to patients with LOS more than 2 weeks; it is recommended that patients are directed to AbScent and Fifth Sense for further support

Isolated loss of smell (LOS)

Patients with Covid infection

• LOS less than three months: GP management (see above)
• LOS more than three months: ENT referral
• Oral Corticosteroids/omega 3 supplements are treatment options if the patient has completely recovered from all other symptoms of Covid-19

Patients with no Covid infection

LOS more than 4-6 weeks: ENT referral

Loss of smell (LOS) associated with nasal symptoms (blockage/congestion)

• Intranasal corticosteroid sprays are recommended in patients with LOS more than 2 weeks associated with nasal symptoms
• Intranasal corticosteroid drops or rinses are optional to recommend in patients with LOS more than 2 weeks associated with nasal symptoms
• All patients with LOS more than 4-6 weeks associated with nasal symptoms should be referred to ENT

Loss of smell (LOS) associated with neurological symptoms (including persistent gustatory dysfunction)

• All patients with LOS more than 6 weeks with additional neurological symptoms should have an MRI scan of brain regardless of Covid-19 status