Return of Smell and Taste After Covid

In 2022 my smell and taste were affected due to Covid. Took a long and anxious time for them to return. I caught Covid last week and smell and taste affected again. Unfortunately I was diagnosed with Myleoma earlier this year in February. I have been given four round of chemo. My question is if my taste and smell are still likely to return despite cancer and its treatment? Has anyone else had their taste and smell return after having a cancer diagnosis and treatment? Many thanks.

  • Hi MoWills and thank you for your post.

    I am sorry to hear that you have been diagnosed with myeloma and also have Covid again. I appreciate your concerns.

    For most people, chemotherapy side effects are temporary and disappear once treatment has finished.

    You may find it helpful to discuss this with your doctor or specialist nurse about this as they know all your medical information and are familiar with the chemotherapy drugs you've been taking.

    In their Myeloma matters magazine, summer 2017 edition, Myeloma UK explains that a dietician may be able to help if taste and smell are affected. NHS Inform explain about  smell training techniques  for people affected by COVID,  which you might find helpful. 

    I hope this information helps. Let us know if you have any further questions or concerns.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards,

    Tina