A member asked:

After spraying my nose with afrin nasal spray for congestion i cannot smell anything. even the most strongest perfumes or food?

7 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Dr. Stephen Southard answered

Specializes in Internal Medicine

Not a commonly: Reported adverse effect. So much so that it's not really even commonly mentioned on most adverse effects lists for Afrin (oxymetazoline). There is some evidence that more long term vasoconstriction which Afrin (oxymetazoline) does, can lead to the loss of smell. But alternatively remember, many inflammatory conditions of the nasopharynx can also lead to the loss of smell. If you are worried avoid using it.

Answered 7/24/2019

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Dr. Corey Clay answered

Specializes in Allergy and Immunology

A thought: Loss of smell (and possible cause of congestion to begin with) could implicate the presence of nasal polyps. These are growths caused by various types of inflammation and should be treated with medicine to reduce their size and restore nasopharyngeal health. An Allergist can help.

Answered 2/10/2016

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