COVID-19 Causes Subtle Smell Loss Lasting Years in Majority
COVID-19 Causes Subtle Smell Loss Lasting Years in Majority

COVID-19 Causes Subtle Smell Loss Lasting Years in Majority

News summary

A large study involving over 3,500 adults, including those with and without a history of COVID-19, found that long-term loss or impairment of the sense of smell can persist for about two years after infection. Approximately 80% of individuals who noticed changes in their smell scored poorly on clinical scent-detection tests, with nearly a quarter experiencing severe impairment or complete loss. Even more concerning, two-thirds of those who did not notice any smell problems also had abnormal test results, indicating a widespread, often unnoticed issue. The diminished sense of smell, or hyposmia, is linked to reduced quality of life, risks such as inability to detect hazards, and may be an early indicator of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. Researchers recommend regular smell assessments as part of post-COVID care and suggest potential treatments such as vitamin A supplements and olfactory training to help recover olfactory function. The findings underscore the importance of recognizing and addressing long-term sensory effects of COVID-19, even in those who feel fully recovered.

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