How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit About Loss of Smell/Taste

Audience: adult

Loss of smell or taste can affect your daily life and may signal an underlying health issue. Preparing for a telemedicine visit about these symptoms helps you get the most from your appointment. During the visit, a healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent exposures or illnesses. Telemedicine is often suitable for initial evaluation and follow-up of loss of smell or taste, especially when in-person visits are difficult. However, some situations require urgent in-person care. Being ready with your symptom details, a list of current medications, and questions can improve your experience. This guide explains how to prepare, what to expect, and when to seek immediate medical attention.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever with difficulty breathing — call emergency services or go to the nearest hospital.
• Persistent confusion, severe headache, or vision changes — get urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of loss of smell or taste without severe symptoms.
• Follow-up consultations for ongoing symptoms.
• Guidance on home care and symptom monitoring.
• Discussion of recent illnesses and medication review.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency symptoms such as sudden neurological changes or severe breathing difficulty.
• Physical examination requiring specialized tests or procedures.
• Situations needing immediate diagnostic imaging or laboratory tests.
• Severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis.

Understanding Loss of Smell and Taste

Loss of smell (anosmia) and taste (ageusia) can happen for many reasons, such as infections, allergies, nasal blockages, or neurological conditions. These senses are closely linked, so losing one often affects the other. Sometimes, loss of smell or taste occurs suddenly, while other times it develops gradually. Knowing the pattern and associated symptoms helps your healthcare provider understand the cause.

When Telemedicine Is Appropriate

Telemedicine can be a convenient way to discuss loss of smell or taste with a healthcare provider. It is often suitable when you have no severe symptoms and can describe your condition clearly. During the visit, the provider will ask about your symptom onset, duration, any recent illnesses (like colds or COVID-19), allergies, medication use, and other health issues. They may guide you on home care or recommend further tests.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your appointment, gather important information to share with your provider:

When to Seek In-Person Care Immediately

Some signs require urgent medical attention and cannot be managed through telemedicine alone. Seek in-person care if you experience:

These symptoms may indicate serious conditions needing immediate evaluation.

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow your provider's advice carefully. This may include:

Keep all instructions handy and ask for clarification if needed.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the start date and progression of your loss of smell or taste.
• List any other symptoms you have experienced.
• Prepare a current list of medications and supplements.
• Write down questions or concerns for your healthcare provider.
• Ensure your device is charged and has a stable internet connection.
• Find a quiet, private place for your telemedicine visit.
• Have a pen and paper ready to take notes during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment or advice given by your healthcare provider.
• Monitor your symptoms daily and note any changes.
• Schedule a follow-up appointment if recommended.
• Seek immediate in-person care if you develop any red flag symptoms.
• Maintain good nasal hygiene if advised (e.g., saline rinses).
• Avoid exposure to irritants like smoke or strong chemicals during recovery.

FAQs

Can loss of smell or taste recover on its own?

Yes, loss of smell or taste often improves over time, especially if caused by infections or allergies. Recovery can take days to weeks, but some cases may take longer. If symptoms persist beyond a few weeks, consult your healthcare provider.

Is loss of smell or taste a sign of COVID-19?

Loss of smell or taste has been reported as a common symptom of COVID-19. If you experience these symptoms, especially with other signs like fever or cough, seek testing and follow public health guidance.

What home remedies can help with loss of smell or taste?

Some people find nasal saline rinses helpful if nasal congestion is present. Avoid smoking and exposure to strong odors or chemicals. However, always consult your healthcare provider before trying new treatments.

When should I seek emergency care for loss of smell or taste?

If loss of smell or taste is accompanied by sudden weakness, difficulty speaking, severe headache, vision changes, high fever, or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Can medications cause loss of smell or taste?

Yes, certain medications may affect your senses. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking during your telemedicine visit.

Sources

1. Loss of Smell and Taste — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Anosmia and Ageusia in COVID-19 — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Smell Disorders — Mayo Clinic.
4. Telemedicine: What You Need to Know — National Library of Medicine.

This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Telemedicine can be a helpful tool but is not a substitute for in-person care when urgent or complex medical issues arise. Always seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe or emergency symptoms.