Loss of Taste and Smell Following Antibiotic Allergy
I am a 27-year-old female currently on a few medications: Cymbalta (60 mg each day) and Buspar (15 mg once or twice daily as needed). Additionally, I receive the depot-provera injection every three months. Recently, I completed a six-day course of Prednisone (10 mg) and am on day six of a seven-day treatment with Augmentin for a sinus infection. Last Wednesday, I experienced an allergic reaction to Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (800-160 mg) that had been prescribed for my sinus infection. I took three doses, but nearly succumbed to anaphylaxis after my last dose on Wednesday morning. To combat the reaction, I received a steroid injection (dexamethasone) along with Prednisone to alleviate the remaining inflammation and rash. The allergic episode led to facial swelling, a slightly elevated heart rate (110 bpm), a petechial rash primarily around my eyes, chin, lips, and forehead, a low-grade fever of 99.1°F, and increased sinus congestion and pressure. My healthcare provider switched my medication to Augmentin (875-125), which I have been taking twice daily. By Thursday, I noticed a significant reduction in my smell and taste senses. I've been dealing with severe sinus congestion before developing the Sulfamethoxazole allergy, making it challenging to determine whether my lack of smell and taste is linked to the allergy or the various medications I've been on recently. Although my sinus congestion has improved substantially, my ability to taste and smell remains diminished. Occasionally, I still experience nasal stuffiness, but it alternates between nostrils, and I can still breathe comfortably through both. When I eat, I can detect some flavors, albeit very faintly, and even peppermint oil smells weak when I try to inhale it directly from the bottle. I still feel slightly bloated due to the Prednisone, which is why I intended to wait until I finish my medications before addressing this issue with my doctor. I'm unsure if my symptomatology stems from the sinus infection itself or the pharmaceuticals I've taken. Given that I had to repeatedly start and stop several prescriptions and the allergic reaction was intense for a couple of days, I'm uncertain whether my situation warrants concern or if it’s just my body healing from what could have escalated into a medical crisis. Considering that my delay in seeking help contributed to my near anaphylactic incident, I'm reluctant to disregard these symptoms. Should I keep track of these symptoms and wait until the medications are eliminated from my system before consulting my doctor, or would it be wise to inform them about my changes in taste and smell sooner?
Answers (1)
2/17/2026, 8:50:38 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to be concerned about your loss of taste and smell, especially following such a significant allergic reaction and the medications involved. This symptom may stem from several factors, including the sinus infection itself, the antibiotic treatment, or the body’s response to the allergic episode.
Explanation:
Loss of taste and smell, known as anosmia and ageusia respectively, can occur due to inflammation in the nasal passages caused by sinus infections or allergies. Since you experienced facial swelling and congestion, it is likely these conditions are affecting your senses. Additionally, certain medications can temporarily alter taste and smell; however, the recent allergic reaction and the resulting treatment may be a more significant contributor.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a diary of your sense of taste and smell, along with any other symptoms like nasal congestion. Note when you feel improvements or changes.
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Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious foods to support your body's recovery. This can also help with any lingering bloating from the Prednisone.
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Consider Timing: While it’s often recommended to allow your body some time to heal naturally, your recent allergic reaction and the complexity of your symptoms suggest that informing your healthcare provider sooner might be beneficial. Document your symptoms and share them during your next contact, even if it’s not a scheduled appointment.
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Avoid Irritants: Stay clear of strong odors or chemicals that may further irritate your nasal passages.
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Self-Care for Congestion: Use saline nasal sprays or humidifiers to ease nasal congestion, helping to improve your sense of smell and taste.
If your symptoms persist beyond the expected recovery period after your medications are completed or if they worsen, seeking medical advice sooner would be advisable. Your proactive tracking and discussion of these changes with your doctor will be helpful in guiding your ongoing treatment.
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