Loss of Taste and Smell After a Cold: Causes & What to Do

Question
I am 61 years old. I have lost my sense of smell and taste considrably following an episode of cold in Sept. In the past when I had a cold I would loose my sense of smell and taste but I would get it back after I recovered from the cold. This time it has not happened. I can smell a little when I go close to the object, eg food. I can taste basic flavors of sweet, sour, salty and spicy. I don't have the sense of taste for other finer flavors eg peanuts, garlic, coriander etc. Is there anything that can be done that will bring back my sense of smell and taste so that I can enjoy my food again? Thank you for any suggestions.  

Answer
Hi Nirmala,
There are a host of reasons why taste and smell change. Considering that you've had this develope after an upper respiratory infection, it is probably due to that.
For it to last longer than usual, deserves a visit to a healthcare provider to rule out pathology in the upper airways.