Smell Disorders in COVID-19: Understanding Parosmia and Phantosmia

by Rosa September 1, 2020

written by Rosa September 1, 2020

COVID-19 and Smell Disorders: Parosmia and Phantosmia

COVID-19 can affect the sense of smell, leading to a variety of symptoms, including smell loss, parosmia, and phantosmia.

Smell Loss

Smell loss, or anosmia, is a common symptom of COVID-19, affecting up to 86% of patients. Most people recover their sense of smell within a few weeks, but some may experience persistent smell loss.

Parosmia

Parosmia is a distortion of the sense of smell, making things smell unpleasant or even revolting. It is a common symptom of COVID-19, affecting approximately 7% of patients. Triggers for parosmia can include foods such as coffee, chocolate, and red wine.

Phantosmia

Phantosmia is a condition in which people experience smells that are not present in the environment. These smells can be fleeting or linger for extended periods and are often unpleasant, such as cigarette smoke or burning wood.

Causes of Smell Disorders in COVID-19

The SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, can damage the olfactory neurons responsible for transmitting smell information to the brain. It can also damage the supporting cells that surround these neurons, impairing their function. Additionally, inflammation caused by the virus can disrupt nerve function, contributing to smell disorders.

Recovery from Smell Disorders

Regeneration of olfactory neurons is possible after damage, but it can take time, up to two years or more. During recovery, patients may experience parosmia as the olfactory system gradually recovers.

Triggers for Parosmia and Phantosmia

Certain foods and smells can trigger parosmia and phantosmia in COVID-19 patients. Common triggers include:

Gasoline
Tobacco
Coffee
Perfumes
Chocolate
Vegetable oil (e.g., tortilla chips, french fries)

Treatment for Smell Disorders

Currently, there is no definitive treatment for smell disorders associated with COVID-19. However, ongoing research is investigating various approaches, including:

Fish oil supplements
Transcranial stimulation
Olfactory retraining exercises

Impact of Smell Disorders on Quality of Life

Smell disorders can significantly impact quality of life, affecting enjoyment of food, social interactions, and emotional well-being. Patients may experience anxiety, depression, and social isolation due to their altered sense of smell.

Ongoing Research

The prevalence of smell disorders in COVID-19 has spurred increased research in the field of chemosensory sciences. Global collaborations are investigating the connection between the chemical senses and COVID-19, exploring new treatments and strategies for recovery.

Rosa

Rosa is a distinguished software engineer whose passion for science and technology was kindled in her early childhood. Growing up in a household where academic curiosity was nurtured, Rosa was deeply influenced by her father, a dedicated physics professor. After long days at the university, her father would come home and engage Rosa in a world of scientific exploration, guiding her through various experiments and fostering a profound love for the intricacies of the physical world. From a young age, Rosa was captivated by the endless possibilities that science presented. She spent countless hours conducting experiments and learning the fundamental principles of physics. This early exposure to scientific inquiry not only honed her analytical skills but also instilled in her a relentless curiosity and a passion for problem-solving. Rosa's academic journey led her to pursue a degree in Computer Science, where she excelled in her studies, driven by the same enthusiasm that had characterized her childhood experiments. She graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor's degree from a prestigious university. Her academic achievements were marked by numerous accolades and scholarships, reflecting her dedication and exceptional talent in the field. In her professional career, Rosa has made significant contributions to the tech industry. She has worked for several leading technology companies, where she has been instrumental in developing innovative software solutions that have had a substantial impact on various sectors. Her expertise lies in designing and implementing complex algorithms, optimizing system performance, and ensuring the reliability and scalability of software applications. Beyond her technical prowess, Rosa is a strong advocate for women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). She actively participates in mentorship programs, guiding young women who aspire to pursue careers in technology. Rosa believes in the power of education and the importance of providing equal opportunities for all, and she dedicates her time to speaking at conferences and workshops to inspire the next generation of female engineers. In her personal life, Rosa continues to embrace her scientific roots. She enjoys spending her free time experimenting with new technologies, reading scientific journals, and engaging in discussions about the future of technology. Rosa's journey from a curious child conducting experiments to a successful software engineer is a testament to the power of early exposure to science and the enduring influence of a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.