Loss of Smell

At the University of Chicago Medicine, we provide innovative and comprehensive care for people experiencing loss of smell. Our multidisciplinary team of experts work together to provide an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. We evaluate patients to learn how extensive the disorder is and to address any underlying factors that could be affecting sense of smell.

Causes of Smell Loss 

Often, loss of smell is caused by an underlying condition, such as:

• Illness such as cold or flu, COVID-19, sinus infection and allergies
• Neurological disease
• Inflammatory disease
• Aging
• Medication
• Trauma

Smell Loss Treatment

UChicago Medicine is a leader in the latest research, clinical trials and treatments in loss of smell. Since smell loss is different for everyone, our experts will create a personalized care plan for each patient. Treatment generally involves assessing and treating the underlying condition causing the problem. 

Treatment strategies may include:

• Smell training
• Medication
• Surgery
• Counseling and supportive care
• Lifestyle changes
• Clinical trials

COVID-19 and Loss of Smell

Loss of smell is one of the most common symptoms of COVID-19. While sense of smell usually returns to normal within a few weeks, a significant number of patients experience long-term loss.

At UChicago Medicine, our Post-COVID recovery clinic evaluates patients suffering from persistent smell loss following COVID-19. During the visit, we will carefully assess symptoms, tests and any previously completed treatments.

Patients will have the opportunity to participate in research studies and to enroll in a registry, allowing us to offer new treatments should they become available in the future.

To make an appointment with our Post-COVID Recovery clinic, please email PostCovidRecoveryClinic@uchospitals.edu or please call 1-773-702-7826.