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What Causes Loss Of Sense Of Smell Post Treatment For Flu?
Question: Hi! I had the flu for the last 6 days. Today my nose is completely clear and i can breathe clearly but i have lost all sense of smell. Will this come back? Also i havent had a bowel movement in 9 days? A laxative did not work and it just made me pass a lot of gas.
Brief Answer:
can try a fiber supplement, fluids and an alternative laxative
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Yes, the sense of smell should return.
The lining of the nasal passages would have been affected by the viral infection and in some cases, it can take a few weeks to return completely to normal.
Your sense of smell should within 1 to 3 weeks.
In terms of bowel movements, if your diet has been reduced over the last few days because you felt unwell , this would have affected your bowel movements.
You may not have much to pass.
You can try using an alternative laxative along with a fiber supplement to see if this helps.
Fiber supplements include cetrucil, benefiber, metamucil. Additional fiber would help to bulk up the stool so that it can pass easier.
The laxative used was not mentioned by you can use an alternative to see if another one would work better for you.
You would also need to make sure that you are using enough fluids, inadequate fluids are one of the common causes of constipation.
This does not include any caffeine drinks or alcohol because these drinks have a diuretic effect and cause the body to lose fluids.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
can try a fiber supplement, fluids and an alternative laxative
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Yes, the sense of smell should return.
The lining of the nasal passages would have been affected by the viral infection and in some cases, it can take a few weeks to return completely to normal.
Your sense of smell should within 1 to 3 weeks.
In terms of bowel movements, if your diet has been reduced over the last few days because you felt unwell , this would have affected your bowel movements.
You may not have much to pass.
You can try using an alternative laxative along with a fiber supplement to see if this helps.
Fiber supplements include cetrucil, benefiber, metamucil. Additional fiber would help to bulk up the stool so that it can pass easier.
The laxative used was not mentioned by you can use an alternative to see if another one would work better for you.
You would also need to make sure that you are using enough fluids, inadequate fluids are one of the common causes of constipation.
This does not include any caffeine drinks or alcohol because these drinks have a diuretic effect and cause the body to lose fluids.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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