Loss of smell may be the first, early or only sign of a COVID-19 infection according to Scientific American. However, reduction of this sense also associates with Parkinson’s, Alzheimers, and aging generally. But a recent MedRxiv research report does provide compelling evidence of loss of taste and smell relating to COVID-19. This is not medical advice. Always seek professional assistance if you feel ill.
A Powerful Correlation Between Taste, Smell and COVID-19
A research report by a group of medical scientists reveals the following from a questionnaire involving 4,039 participants aged 19-79. These 2,913 women, 8 undisclosed and 1,118 men all claimed a COVID-19 diagnosis, and responded to a multi-lingual, international questionnaire as follows:
1… Close to 80% reported loss of normal smell function
2… Just over 69% experienced loss of normal taste sensation
3… Some 39% had reduced mouth, nose and skin sensitivity
These test results appear to provide convincing evidence of loss of smell and taste relating to COVID-19. More research is necessary but we now have a firm base on which to build.
How Does This Work and What If I Feel This Way?
Vanderbilt University Medical Center reports the 80% subjective loss of smell increased with more objective test methods. Moreover, smell reduced first, and then loss of taste followed because aroma is a prerequisite for flavor.
Upper respiratory tract infections tied to congestion, drainage and other nasal symptoms can isolate the smell nerve at the top of the cavity. However, Vanderbilt University Medical Center believes the coronavirus causes an inflammatory reaction attacking the olfactory smell neurons themselves.
This may cause permanent loss of the sense of smell in some cases. However, in others the smell neurons regenerate. But the Vanderbilt author believes the loss of taste and smell associated with COVID-19 is down to the colocation of receptors. That’s because these are most commonly found in the nasal cavity, and protective cells surrounding the smell neurons.
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Preview Image: Olfactory Smelling System
