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