Nearly four months ago I developed a bad dose of flu. Since then I have not been able to smell or taste anything. I cannot take decongestant tablets because I have hypertension. Could this be permanent or is there still a low grade infection present which might benefit from antibiotics
Hello! Welcome and thank you for asking on Chat Doctor! Your symptoms seem to be related to loss of smell. This is a common complication of flue infection, caused by the dysfunction of smell receptor cells. The lack of taste, may be related to the smell dysfunction (smelling plays a big role in the taste of food). Another diagnosis to consider would be chronic sinus infection. A sinus X-ray study would help to exclude that. This may be just a temporary dysfunction. I would recommend you to consult with a neurologist for a careful physical exam. Some vitamins would be helpful. Best wishes,