Tele-triage for Loss of Smell/Taste

Audience: adult

Loss of smell (anosmia) or taste (ageusia) can happen for many reasons, including infections like colds or COVID-19, allergies, or other health conditions. Telemedicine can help assess your symptoms and guide you on the next steps. During a tele-visit, a healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, their duration, and any other related health issues. They can advise if you need further testing or in-person care. While many cases improve on their own, some situations require urgent attention. Tele-triage helps you get timely advice without leaving home, but it cannot replace a full physical exam or specialized tests. If you experience severe symptoms or warning signs, seek emergency care immediately. This guide helps you understand when telemedicine is suitable for loss of smell or taste and how to prepare for a tele-visit.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath — seek emergency care immediately.
• Sudden weakness, confusion, or severe headache — call emergency services.
• Loss of smell or taste lasting more than 4 weeks without improvement — consult a healthcare provider in person.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment for recent loss of smell or taste.
• Guidance on home care and monitoring symptoms.
• Advice on when to seek testing or in-person evaluation.
• Review of medical history related to smell/taste loss.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination requiring specialized equipment.
• Emergency symptoms such as breathing difficulty or neurological deficits.
• Diagnostic testing like imaging or smell tests.
• Treatment requiring in-person procedures or urgent care.

Common Causes of Loss of Smell or Taste

Loss of smell or taste often results from infections like the common cold, flu, or COVID-19. Allergies, nasal polyps, or sinus infections can also cause these symptoms. Sometimes, medications, head injuries, or neurological conditions may be involved. Understanding the cause helps guide care.

When to Use Telemedicine for Loss of Smell/Taste

Telemedicine is useful for initial evaluation if your loss of smell or taste is recent and not accompanied by severe symptoms. A healthcare provider can review your history, symptoms, and advise on home care or testing. Tele-visits can reduce exposure risks and provide quick guidance.

Signs That Need In-Person or Emergency Care

Seek immediate in-person care if you have difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, severe headache, or sudden weakness. Also, if loss of smell or taste lasts more than a few weeks without improvement, or if you have other concerning symptoms like persistent fever, see a healthcare provider in person.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit, note when your symptoms started and any changes. List other symptoms like fever, cough, or nasal congestion. Have a quiet space with good internet or phone connection. Be ready to describe your medical history and any medications you take.

What to Expect During the Tele-Visit

The provider will ask detailed questions about your symptoms and health history. They may guide you through simple self-exams. Based on your answers, they may recommend testing, medications, or follow-up care. They will also advise when to seek in-person evaluation.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the date when loss of smell or taste began.
• List any other symptoms you have (fever, cough, congestion).
• Prepare a list of current medications and medical conditions.
• Ensure your device has a working camera and microphone if video is needed.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space for the tele-visit.
• Have a pen and paper ready to take notes during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on symptom monitoring.
• Schedule any recommended tests or in-person visits if advised.
• Rest and stay hydrated to support recovery.
• Report any worsening or new symptoms promptly.
• Keep track of symptom changes to share in follow-up visits.

FAQs

Can loss of smell or taste be 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 to prevent spread.

How long does loss of smell or taste usually last?

It often improves within a few weeks, especially if caused by infections like colds. However, recovery time varies and some people may experience longer-lasting symptoms.

Can medications cause loss of smell or taste?

Yes, certain medications can affect your senses. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take so they can evaluate this possibility.

Is there any treatment for loss of smell or taste?

Treatment depends on the cause. Sometimes symptoms improve on their own. In other cases, treating underlying conditions or therapies like smell training may help. Always consult a healthcare provider for guidance.

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

If you have difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, severe headache, or sudden weakness along with loss of smell or taste, seek emergency care immediately.

Sources

1. Anosmia and Ageusia: 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. Loss of Smell and Taste: Causes and Treatment — Mayo Clinic.
4. Olfactory Disorders: Clinical Practice Guideline — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe or worsening symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.