Tele-triage for Loss of Smell/Taste in Children

Audience: pediatric

Loss of smell (anosmia) or taste (ageusia) in children can be concerning and may happen for many reasons, including infections, allergies, or other health issues. Telemedicine can help families understand these symptoms and decide if further care is needed. During a tele-visit, a healthcare provider will ask about the child's symptoms, medical history, and any other signs of illness. This helps to identify if the loss of smell or taste is likely temporary or if it needs urgent evaluation. While telemedicine is useful for initial assessment and advice, some situations require in-person care, such as difficulty breathing or severe illness. Understanding when to seek emergency care or a face-to-face visit ensures your child gets the right treatment safely and promptly.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath — seek emergency care immediately.
• Persistent high fever (over 39°C or 102°F) lasting more than 3 days — contact healthcare provider urgently.
• Confusion, severe headache, or facial swelling — get emergency medical attention without delay.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of loss of smell or taste without severe symptoms.
• Guidance on home care and symptom monitoring.
• Advice on when to seek in-person evaluation or testing.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency symptoms such as breathing difficulty or severe neurological signs.
• Physical examination requiring specialized equipment.
• Procedures or treatments needing face-to-face interaction.

What Causes Loss of Smell or Taste in Children?

Children may lose their sense of smell or taste due to common colds, sinus infections, allergies, or exposure to irritants. Viral infections, including those caused by some coronaviruses, can temporarily affect these senses. Other causes include nasal blockage, certain medications, or rarely, neurological conditions. Often, the loss is temporary and improves as the underlying issue resolves.

When to Use Telemedicine for These Symptoms

Telemedicine is a good first step to discuss loss of smell or taste, especially if your child has mild symptoms without breathing problems or high fever. A healthcare provider can gather information, suggest home care, and decide if testing or further evaluation is needed. This approach helps reduce unnecessary travel and exposure to illnesses.

Signs That Need Immediate In-Person Care

If your child has trouble breathing, persistent high fever, severe headache, confusion, or swelling in the face or neck, seek emergency medical care immediately. These signs may indicate a serious infection or other urgent condition that requires prompt treatment.

What to Expect During a Telemedicine Visit

During the visit, the provider will ask about your child's symptoms, duration of smell or taste loss, any other health problems, and possible exposures. They may guide you through simple checks and advise on symptom management. Based on this, they will recommend if in-person evaluation or testing is necessary.

Managing Loss of Smell or Taste at Home

Most children recover their senses as the illness improves. Encourage rest, hydration, and avoiding irritants like smoke. If allergies are suspected, managing them with approved medications may help. Follow your healthcare provider's advice and report any worsening symptoms promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have your child's medical history and current medications ready.
• Note when the loss of smell or taste started and any other symptoms.
• Prepare to describe any recent illnesses or exposures.
• Ensure a quiet, well-lit space for the tele-visit.
• Have a list of questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions on symptom management.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely and note any changes.
• Schedule in-person visits or testing if recommended.
• Seek emergency care if red-flag symptoms develop.
• Keep a record of the tele-visit summary and advice for future reference.

FAQs

Can loss of smell or taste in children be permanent?

Permanent loss is rare. Most children regain their senses once the underlying cause, like an infection, resolves. If symptoms persist beyond a few weeks, consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

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, but it also occurs with other viral infections. Testing may be recommended based on exposure risk and other symptoms.

Should I give my child any medication for loss of smell or taste?

There is no specific medication to restore smell or taste. Treating the underlying cause, such as allergies or infections, may help. Always consult a healthcare provider before giving any medication.

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of smell or taste loss?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and guide next steps but cannot perform physical exams or tests needed for a definitive diagnosis. In-person evaluation may be necessary.

When should I take my child to the emergency room?

If your child has difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, confusion, severe headache, or facial swelling, 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 Children: Symptoms and Testing — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Loss of Smell and Taste — Mayo Clinic.
4. Pediatric Telehealth: Best Practices — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or emergencies, seek immediate medical attention.