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

Audience: pediatric

Loss of smell or taste in children can be caused by many conditions, including infections like colds or COVID-19. While these symptoms often improve on their own, they sometimes signal more serious health issues. Telemedicine can help evaluate mild cases and guide families on care at home. However, certain warning signs require prompt in-person medical attention. This article explains when to use telemedicine and when to seek urgent care for children experiencing loss of smell or taste. Understanding these red flags helps ensure your child gets the right care quickly and safely.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has difficulty breathing or persistent choking — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever lasting more than 3 days with loss of smell/taste — see a healthcare provider in person.
• Loss of smell/taste following a head injury or with neurological symptoms like confusion — urgent in-person evaluation needed.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of mild loss of smell or taste without severe symptoms.
• Guidance on home care and symptom monitoring.
• Determining need for testing for infections like COVID-19.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe breathing difficulties or choking.
• Persistent high fever with worsening symptoms.
• Neurological symptoms such as confusion, weakness, or head injury-related symptoms.

What Causes Loss of Smell and Taste in Children?

Children may lose their sense of smell or taste due to common colds, allergies, sinus infections, or viral illnesses like COVID-19. Sometimes, nasal congestion blocks smell receptors, affecting taste as well. Less commonly, it can be linked to head injuries, neurological conditions, or exposure to harmful substances. Identifying the cause helps guide appropriate care.

When Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine is useful for initial evaluation when your child has mild symptoms without severe signs. A healthcare provider can ask about symptoms, medical history, and exposure risks. They may suggest home care tips, such as nasal saline rinses or monitoring symptoms. Telemedicine can also help decide if testing for infections like COVID-19 is needed.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Seek urgent medical attention if your child has:

These signs may indicate serious illness requiring immediate evaluation.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit:

This helps the provider assess your child's condition accurately.

After the Telemedicine Visit

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

Keep emergency numbers handy in case your child's condition changes suddenly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the exact time symptoms began and any changes over time.
• List all other symptoms your child is experiencing.
• Gather your child's medical history and current medications.
• Prepare a quiet, well-lit space with a reliable internet connection for the tele-visit.
• Have a thermometer and any recent test results available.
• Be ready to describe any recent exposures to illness or allergens.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions for home care.
• Monitor your child's symptoms daily and note any changes.
• Schedule follow-up telemedicine or in-person visits as advised.
• Seek immediate in-person care if any red flags develop.
• Keep emergency contact numbers accessible.

FAQs

Can loss of smell or taste in children be permanent?

In most cases, loss of smell or taste due to infections or allergies improves over days to weeks. Permanent loss is rare but can occur with severe nerve damage or certain neurological conditions. Early evaluation helps identify causes and guide treatment.

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

Loss of smell or taste can be a symptom of COVID-19 in children, though not all children with COVID-19 experience these symptoms. Testing may be recommended based on exposure and other symptoms.

What home care can help improve loss of smell or taste?

Home care may include nasal saline rinses, avoiding irritants like smoke, staying hydrated, and managing allergies. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice.

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

Seek emergency care if your child has trouble breathing, persistent choking, severe headache, confusion, weakness, or swelling of the face or lips. These could indicate serious conditions requiring immediate attention.

Sources

1. Loss of Smell and Taste — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. COVID-19 and Loss of Smell and Taste — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Anosmia and Ageusia in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
4. Loss of Smell and Taste: Causes and Treatment — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek immediate medical attention.