A study in the British Medical Journal estimates that 5.6 per cent of people infected with COVID-19 may lose their sense of smell, while 4.4 per cent of patients report permanent loss of taste. Experts say this is a common condition called anosmia or loss of the sense of smell and taste when infected with COVID-19.
However, many people still complain of these symptoms for weeks, months, or even years after recovery.
Commenting on the study, Professor Paolo Boscolo-Rizzo from Italy’s University of Trieste said a person who experiences loss of sense of smell and taste can lead to other health risks such as anorexia and malnutrition.
“The loss of smell and taste affects quality of life by depriving people of everyday pleasures and social bonds,” he said.
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“People can also experience anorexia, aversion to eating, malnutrition, anxiety, and depression.”
Meanwhile, scientists at the National University of Singapore examined data from 3,699 patients who lost their sense of taste or smell after contracting COVID-19 to see how many recovered. As many as three-quarters returned to normal conditions, while the rest experienced long-term symptoms.
“The larger group may experience long-term dysfunction,” the scientists said.
Symptoms of loss of sense of smell and taste in the long term even after recovery, is one of the effects of the Long COVID condition.
Dr Kiren Collison, chair of the Long COVID NHS UK task force, said more than 45,000 people had visited Long COVID clinics in the UK in the past year.
“Long COVID can be devastating for those living with it,” he said.
“Today’s plans build on our world-leading care to ensure support is available to everyone who needs it, and that patients can access specialist support in a more convenient way.”
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(mfn/naf)
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