Loss of smell, medically known as anosmia (total loss) or hyposmia (partial reduction), is a common condition that can appear suddenly or progressively.

The sense of smell is essential for detecting odours, enjoying food, recognising environmental risks and maintaining daily wellbeing. When it is affected, it can have a significant impact on everyday life.

At barnaclínic+, we have a team of otolaryngology specialists from Hospital Clínic de Barcelona with extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of loss of smell.

We combine clinical expertise, advanced diagnostic tests and innovative evidence-based treatments to manage both recent cases and persistent anosmia.

Loss of smell can have different causes. Identifying the cause is essential to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the most appropriate treatment.

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  VIRAL INFECTIONS

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  NASAL PATHOLOGY

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  TRAUMA

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  OTHER CAUSES

Each case requires an individualised assessment, as prognosis and treatment options may vary depending on the cause and the duration of symptoms.

WHICH PATIENTS RESPOND BEST TO PRP?

The best candidates are usually:

- Patients with loss of smell after COVID-19 or viral infections

- Cases in which the nerve pathways are preserved

- Patients with persistent loss of smell without response to conservative treatment

- Some post-traumatic cases

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WHEN ARE RESULTS NOTICEABLE?

Many patients begin to notice changes between 4 and 6 weeks after the first infiltrations.

They usually first recover olfactory sensations and later the ability to identify different smells, especially when combined with olfactory training.

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IS PRP TREATMENT PAINFUL?

The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia in the nasal cavities. The infiltrations are carried out with very fine needles and normally discomfort is minimal. A small self-limiting bleed may occur, but it is considered a safe and well-tolerated technique.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LOSS OF SMELL

I have lost my sense of smell, what should I do?

If you have suddenly lost your sense of smell, especially after flu, a cold or COVID-19, the most advisable thing is to monitor its evolution during the first few days. In many cases, recovery occurs spontaneously.

If the loss of smell persists for several weeks, worsens or is accompanied by nasal congestion, pain or other symptoms, it is advisable to consult an otolaryngology specialist for a proper diagnosis and treatment assessment.

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How long does it take for the sense of smell to return?

The time needed to recover the sense of smell depends on the cause. Some people recover their sense of smell within a few days, while in other cases it may take weeks or months.

Loss of smell after viral infections usually improves progressively, although when anosmia persists for more than 3 or 4 months, a specialist assessment is recommended.

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Is it normal not to recover the sense of smell after COVID?

Yes, persistent loss of smell after COVID-19 is a relatively common situation. Although most patients improve over time, some people continue to experience olfactory disturbances for months.

In these cases, treatments such as olfactory training or advanced therapies such as PRP may help stimulate recovery.

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Can the sense of smell be recovered after one year?

Yes, it is possible to recover the sense of smell even after one year, although spontaneous recovery is less common. That is why it is important to assess specific therapeutic options when loss of smell is prolonged.

A loss of smell specialist can determine whether appropriate treatments exist depending on the cause and type of impairment.

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Does PRP work to recover the sense of smell?

PRP treatment (platelet-rich plasma) is showing promising results in patients with persistent loss of smell, especially after COVID-19 or viral infections.

It consists of using growth factors obtained from the patient’s own blood to stimulate regeneration of the olfactory system. The indication must always be assessed individually.

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Which specialist treats loss of smell?

The specialist indicated to diagnose and treat loss of smell is the otolaryngologist. This professional can carry out a complete examination of the nose, paranasal sinuses and olfactory system, as well as request specific tests if necessary.

Attending a specialised unit makes it possible to identify the cause and plan the most appropriate treatment as soon as possible.

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Where can loss of smell be treated in Barcelona?

The most advisable option is to attend a specialised otolaryngology centre with experience in olfactory disorders and access to advanced diagnostic tests.

At barnaclínic+, we have specialists from Hospital Clínic de Barcelona and personalised therapeutic options for patients with anosmia or reduced sense of smell.