According to a new study published in the journal, International Forum of Allergy and Rhinology, loss of smell is one of the most prevalent symptoms of long Covid.

Experts stated that Long Covid is a complex disorder that can occur during or after covid. It is diagnosed as such when symptoms last for more than 12 weeks and include headache, myalgia, exhaustion, and a loss of taste and smell. After the initial infection, parosmia can continue for months, accompanied by brain fog and memory loss.

Researchers examined data from approximately 3,60,000 individuals from the UK Coronavirus Infection Survey. 10,431 people diagnosed with long-term covid were questioned about 23 specific symptoms and how the condition affected their daily lives. The incidence of long Covid, and in particular symptoms connected to the ear, nose, and throat such smell loss and parosmia were studied.

Results showed that one-third of long-term Covid patients experienced a chronic loss of smell and one-fifth experienced a loss of taste. Data analyzed revealed that 3% of the individuals self-identified suffered from long Covid, with fatigue being the most prevalent symptom, while ENT-related symptoms included vertigo, shortness of breath, asthma, and sore throats, as well as a loss of taste and smell. This is important since it may affect practically all facets of life and hamper the quality of life.

(Source: https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/coronavirus/loss-of-smell-most-prevalent-symptom-of-long-covid-study-463182)