The Startlingly Common Symptom of Covid Many May Not Be Talking About – Loss of Smell
It’s not news to anyone that the novel coronavirus, Covid-19, has changed our lives in ways we couldn’t have imagined. Although the most publicized Covid-19 symptom is a fever, there is a lesser-known symptom that is increasingly being reported. This is the loss of smell, or anosmia. Loss of smell is surprisingly common among Covid-19 patients, and we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to exploring this issue.
What is Loss of Smell?
Anosmia is a prevalent symptom of Covid-19, and is characterized by little to no sense of smell. People with anosmia are unable to detect odors even when the smell is strong. This affects people’s ability to detect food flavors and fragrances, and can greatly reduce the pleasure of eating food.
Common Causes of Loss of Smell
As reported in the New York Times, Covid-19 infection is a major cause of the recent increase of smell loss. It works by acting on the non-coding RNAs that are responsible for receptor families used in smell detection. The virus follows the pathway by inhibiting the expression of the genes involved. Common symptoms that accompany the loss of smell include a runny nose, congestion, headaches, sore throat, fatigue and general malaise.
In addition to Covid-19, other causes of smell loss include head trauma, upper respiratory infection, allergies, age-related changes and polyps in the nasal passageway.
Diagnosis
Doctors generally diagnose anosmia by having patients attempt to distinguish between different smells while closed off from the normal environment. In some cases an MRI or CT scan can also be used to get a better understanding of the causes of smell loss.
The Cures and Treatments
In many cases, the cause of smell loss is temporary, either due to a virus or infection. In these cases, it is often enough for doctors to prescribe medications aimed at improving the body’s ability to detect odors.
If smell loss is due to polyps, cancer or tumors, surgical intervention may be necessary. Some people have also had success in combating their smell loss through natural remedies like homeopathic treatments, acupuncture and herbs.
Covid-Themed Experiences
Loss of smell is one of the least talked-about symptoms of Covid-19, but it is incredibly common. People report that not being able to smell is disorienting and strange, making everything seem surreal. Many Covid-survivors also describe a distorted sense of smell, where they are able to only detect one or two odors that are magnified. Some scientists believe taste and smell feel more disconnected since the onset of Covid-19.
Impact on Mental Health
With such a sudden and drastic change in how people experience the world, it’s understandable that there could be lasting psychological impacts. Mental health professionals report a sudden spike in anxiety and depression in patients who have anosmia due to Covid-19. In fact, over 50% of people with Covid-related anosmia cited mental health problems, such as confusion, fear, irritability and memory issues.
Tips to Cope with Smell Loss
If you or someone you know is experiencing loss of smell, these coping strategies can be helpful:
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Engage the other senses: Even if one sense is affected, there are always the four other senses that can be used to make up for it. A great way to ease the transition is to focus on what you’re able to do with your other senses – such as feel, touch, hear and taste.
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Use scent triggers to help create a sense of familiarity: Smells can be powerful reminders of happy memories, so one should try to use scent triggers to simulate certain experiences. For example, burning a certain candle, using scented soap or applying essential oils can help evoke certain feelings or experiences.
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Breathe deeply: There will be times that the loss of smell can be overwhelming, which is why it’s important to find strategies to cope with anxiety. Practicing breathing exercises and mindful meditation can help keep the body relaxed and calm.
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Seek medical attention if the loss of smell persists: Anosmia can sometimes be a passing symptom, while in other cases it can be an indication of a deeper issue. If the symptoms persist, it’s best to seek medical attention to properly diagnose the issue.
Loss of smell, or anosmia, is an increasingly common symptom of Covid-19. It affects people’s ability to taste and enjoy food, which can impact their mental health. In many cases, anosmia is temporary, caused by a virus or infection that can be treated with medications. If it’s due to other causes, such as polyps, cancer or a tumor, then it may require surgical remedy. In the meantime however, people are encouraged to use their other senses, engage in mindful activities and use scent triggers to evoke feelings of familiarity.
