Klinik Muhibbah Logo
👃

Loss of Smell and Taste Treatment in Johor Bahru

Hilang Deria Bau dan Rasa

Loss of smell (anosmia) and loss of taste (ageusia or dysgeusia) can occur suddenly or gradually. In Malaysia, COVID-19 became a prominent cause of sudden smell and taste loss after 2020. Other causes include viral upper respiratory infections, sinusitis, nasal polyps, head trauma, zinc deficiency, ageing, and less commonly, neurological conditions. Most cases of post-viral anosmia recover within weeks to months, but some persist for over a year (parosmia — distorted smell perception — is common during recovery). Anosmia is also an early symptom of Parkinson disease.

Symptoms of Loss of Smell and Taste

Inability to smell odours (anosmia) or reduced smell (hyposmia)
Inability to taste foods (ageusia) or reduced taste (hypogeusia)
Distorted smell perception — pleasant smells perceived as foul (parosmia)
Distorted taste perception — food tastes burnt, rotten, or chemical
Associated nasal congestion or post-viral illness
In persistent cases — reduced enjoyment of food and reduced appetite

⚠️ When to See a Doctor

See a doctor for any sudden loss of smell, persistent loss of smell beyond 4 weeks, loss of smell following head trauma (nerve injury), or loss of smell in an older adult (may be an early Parkinson disease symptom). Loss of smell with nasal bleeding or facial pain requires prompt assessment.

Treatment at Klinik Muhibbah

At Klinik Muhibbah, Masai, our doctors assess anosmia with history, nasal examination, and where appropriate, nasal endoscopy referral. We treat underlying sinusitis with nasal steroids or antibiotics. We provide olfactory training guidance for post-COVID and post-viral anosmia. Zinc supplementation is used for zinc deficiency-related anosmia. Complex cases are referred to an ENT specialist. Book at movo-x.com/kiosk/muhibbah.

👨‍⚕️ Dr. Prabagaran Kanapathy
M.D(UNPAD) OHD(NIOSH) | MMC 63651
👨‍⚕️ Dr. Kirubah Sai Patnaik
MMC 93850

Prevention Tips

1Get vaccinated against COVID-19 and influenza — both viruses commonly cause anosmia
2Treat chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps early — these obstruct the olfactory nerve pathway
3Avoid head injuries — wear helmets when cycling or contact sports
4Ensure adequate zinc intake — zinc deficiency impairs both smell and taste
5Do not smoke — smoking damages olfactory receptor cells over time

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my smell and taste come back after COVID-19?
Most people recover smell and taste within 2-4 weeks of COVID-19. However, 5-10% experience prolonged anosmia lasting months. Olfactory training — regularly sniffing four different scents twice daily — significantly accelerates recovery. Our doctors can guide you through olfactory training.
What is parosmia and is it normal after COVID?
Parosmia is a distorted smell perception where familiar smells are perceived as unpleasant or chemical — common during recovery from post-COVID anosmia. It indicates olfactory nerve regeneration is occurring, which is actually a positive sign. Most people progress through parosmia to full recovery, though this may take 6-12 months.
How do I get assessed for loss of smell at Klinik Muhibbah?
Book at movo-x.com/kiosk/muhibbah or walk in. Our doctors will assess your anosmia, check for treatable causes (sinusitis, polyps, zinc deficiency), and provide guidance on olfactory training. ENT referral is arranged for complex or persistent cases.

Get Loss of Smell and Taste Treatment Today

No. 62, Jalan Kiambang, Taman Bunga Raya, 81700 Masai, Johor

Mon–Thu & Sat: 9AM–9PM | Fri: 9AM–3PM | Sun: 9AM–1PM | Walk-ins Welcome