A study conducted by the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine found that loss of smell is a common symptom in mild coronavirus cases. The research was conducted on 250 patients, with the majority of them experiencing impaired olfactory senses.
Methodology of the Study
The research was conducted by the faculty members of the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. The patients were enrolled in the study after testing positive for coronavirus through a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test.
The patients were surveyed through an online questionnaire that asked them about their symptoms and the intensity of the symptoms. The study was conducted during a six-month period from April 2020 to October 2020.
Results of the Study
The study found that 87% of the participants reported a loss of smell or taste in mild coronavirus cases.
The majority of participants reported smell loss as the first symptom of COVID-19, and 43% of them said it never fully recovered after recovery from the virus.
The study also noted the fact that the severity of the smell loss did not correlate with the severity of the coronavirus case.
What does the loss of smell indicate?
The loss of smell, also known as anosmia, is known to be one of the early symptoms of COVID-19. The virus causes damage to the olfactory bulb, which is responsible for sending odor signals to the brain.
It is also known that the loss of smell can last for weeks or months, even after the person has recovered from the virus. This can affect the quality of life for the person and can also cause social isolation.
Why is this study important?
The study highlights an important fact that loss of smell should be considered as a significant symptom of COVID-19. It is also important to understand that the severity of the smell loss does not indicate the severity of the coronavirus case.
Even a mild case of coronavirus can lead to the loss of smell, which can have long-term effects on the person’s sense of smell and taste.
The study also highlights the necessity of reporting loss of sense of smell, and taste to healthcare professionals, even if other symptoms of COVID-19 aren’t present. It is important to get a proper diagnosis and treatment for such symptoms.
What are the other common symptoms of COVID-19?
The common symptoms of COVID-19 include:.
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Body aches
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
: Prevention Measures
It is essential to follow preventive measures to avoid the spread of COVID-19. These measures include:.
- Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Covering the mouth and nose with a mask
- Maintaining social distancing of at least 6 feet
- Covering mouth when coughing or sneezing
- Disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces regularly
- Staying home when sick
- Getting vaccinated and encouraging others to get vaccinated
: Conclusion
The loss of smell is a significant symptom of COVID-19. It is essential to report loss of sense of smell and taste to healthcare professionals, even if other symptoms of COVID-19 aren’t present.
The study conducted by the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine highlights the importance of diagnosing and treating such symptoms early on.
It is crucial to follow preventive measures as listed above to avoid the spread of COVID-19 and take care of one’s health.
