Loss of smell is one of the most common complaints.
In medical terms, this symptom is called anosmia.
You should consult an otolaryngologist for diagnosis. The doctor will ask when you noticed this symptom and what process preceded it, whether you lost your sense of smell over time or suddenly. All these issues are important and it is with this information that the anamnesis will be compiled.
The otolaryngologist will look into your nose and prescribe a smell identification test. If necessary, an MRI or CT scan will be prescribed.
In a large percentage of clinical cases, the ability to smell is restored after treating the underlying cause. For example, if the cause is sinusitis, antibiotics will cure the infection. Is the cause nasal polyps? Surgical manipulation will be prescribed. That is, to eliminate the symptom, it is necessary to manage its cause.
Anosmia is often caused by a cold, so your sense of smell will return once you recover.
Unfortunately, it is not always possible to prevent loss of smell, as this symptom can be caused by a number of conditions. In general, the only method of prevention is to avoid colds and other respiratory pathologies as much as possible, because as already mentioned, patients often lose their sense of smell in parallel with these conditions.
Source:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21859-anosmia-loss-of-sense-of-smell
