Red flags & when to go in person for Loss of Smell/Taste

Audience: adult

Loss of smell or taste can happen for many reasons, including infections like colds or COVID-19. Often, this symptom improves on its own. Telemedicine can help you understand your symptoms and guide you on what to do next. However, some signs mean you should see a healthcare provider in person quickly. These include sudden severe headaches, difficulty breathing, or loss of other senses. This guide explains when telemedicine is suitable and when you need urgent in-person care. It also helps you prepare for a tele-visit and what to expect afterward. Remember, while telemedicine is useful for many situations, it is not a replacement for emergency or thorough in-person medical evaluation.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden, severe headache or facial pain — seek emergency care immediately.
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain — go to the nearest emergency department.
• Confusion, weakness, or difficulty speaking — urgent in-person evaluation needed.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of mild loss of smell or taste.
• Providing advice on symptom management and monitoring.
• Determining if further testing or in-person care is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe or sudden neurological symptoms like confusion or weakness.
• Respiratory distress or chest pain.
• Emergency situations requiring immediate physical examination or interventions.

What Causes Loss of Smell and Taste?

Loss of smell (anosmia) or taste (ageusia) can result from infections like the common cold, flu, or COVID-19. Other causes include allergies, nasal polyps, sinus infections, or neurological conditions. Sometimes, medications or exposure to chemicals can affect these senses. Usually, the loss is temporary and improves as the underlying cause resolves.

When Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows you to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare provider remotely. It is useful for initial evaluation, especially if you have mild symptoms without other serious signs. Your provider can help identify possible causes, suggest home care, and decide if further testing or in-person visits are needed.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Certain signs require prompt in-person evaluation:

If you experience any of these, seek emergency care immediately.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit:

This preparation helps your provider give the best advice.

After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your appointment, follow your provider's instructions carefully. This may include:

Keep a record of your symptoms and any treatments used.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the start date and progression of loss of smell or taste.
• List any additional symptoms (fever, headache, breathing difficulties).
• Prepare a list of current medications and medical conditions.
• Ensure a quiet, well-lit space with reliable internet for the tele-visit.
• Have a family member or friend available to assist if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Follow provider's instructions on symptom monitoring and care.
• Take any recommended medications as directed.
• Schedule follow-up visits if advised by your provider.
• Seek in-person care if red flag symptoms develop or worsen.
• Keep a symptom diary to track changes over time.

FAQs

Can loss of smell or taste be permanent?

In most cases, loss of smell or taste is temporary and improves as the underlying cause resolves. However, some conditions can cause longer-lasting changes. If symptoms persist for weeks or worsen, seek medical evaluation.

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

Yes, loss of smell or taste is a common symptom of COVID-19. If you experience these symptoms, consider getting tested and follow local health guidelines for isolation and care.

Can I treat loss of smell or taste at home?

Mild cases often improve without specific treatment. Managing underlying causes like allergies or infections may help. Avoid irritants like smoke or strong chemicals. Always consult a healthcare provider for guidance.

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

Seek emergency care if loss of smell or taste is accompanied by severe headache, difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, weakness, or sudden vision or hearing loss.

How accurate is telemedicine for evaluating loss of smell or taste?

Telemedicine is useful for initial assessment and advice but cannot replace physical examination or specialized testing. Your provider may recommend in-person visits if needed.

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. Loss of Smell or Taste — Mayo Clinic.
4. Telemedicine: What You Need to Know — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you experience any emergency symptoms or worsening health, seek immediate medical attention.