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" Reader Question: I like using zinc nasal gel when I feel a cold coming on, but I&amp;#039;ve heard that it can affect your sense of smell. Is this true? On Call Response: Anything that forms a barrier against the lining of the nose (nasal mucosa)\u2014whether it&amp;#039;s a nasal gel you apply or mucous build-up from a cold\u2014has the potential to interfere with your sense of smell. The good news is that the problem should be temporary. That said, I did once read about a lawsuit filed by people who claimed that zinc nasal gel had permanently damaged their sense of smell. However, none of my patients have reported this problem to me, and it&amp;#039;s unclear whether the product was really to blame. If you&amp;#039;re concerned, consider taking zinc orally instead, in the form of a lozenge. The bigger question is whether or not zinc really works. Unfortunately, the jury is still out. Several studies have found that zinc may help shorten the duration of a cold, but probably won&amp;#039;t prevent you from getting sick in the first place. My advice: If zinc makes you feel better, use it. If not, try a saline nasal gel, which can help soothe an irritated nose. And always remember to wash your hands frequently or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers, since good hygiene is still the best way to prevent catching a cold. I want to hear from you, so e-mail me your questions at dailywd@womansday.com. Disclaimer: Your seeking information on health related topics and/or Sandra Adamson Fryhofer, MD&amp;#039;s providing such information herein constitutes neither the solicitation of nor the provision of medical advice, services, care or treatment. Communication with Dr. Fryhofer on this website does not create a doctor/patient relationship. For concerns about your own particular medical condition, you should consult your own medical professional, who can examine and evaluate you. Communication on a website is not a substitute for taking an active role in your own medical care and treatment and being personally seen by a physician of choice in your area. "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
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