COVID-19 Symptoms May Include Loss of Taste and Smell

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 epidemic, the press has been warning of symptoms that may indicate potential infection. These symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure. Symptoms may include fever, cough and shortness of breath. More advanced problems are persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion, inability to arouse and bluish lips or face. However, additional research has revealed that COVID-19 symptoms may include loss of taste and smell.

A new study describes a coronavirus patient’s ‘sudden and complete’ loss of smell as further evidence that mild cases can involve that symptom, but few others. This study aligns with evidence from South Korea, China, and Italy suggesting asymptomatic patients experience a loss of smell.

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Most people exhibit a dry cough, fever, and difficulty breathing. Between 25% and 50% of infected people might not show no symptoms at all. Other coronavirus patients show less common symptoms like diarrhea or a loss of their senses of smell and taste.

The research adds to a growing body of evidence that suggests individuals whose main symptom is a loss of smell could be infected with the new coronavirus, even if they lack other typical symptoms like cough or fever.

More investigation reveals that the olfactory cleft — a narrow space at the back of the nose into which air that carries scents flows — becomes swollen due to the virus. This swelling prevents odors a mucous membrane inside the nose that detects smells.

These symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure. The CDC suggests that if you have a fever or cough, you might have COVID-19. Most people have mild illness and are able to recover at home. However, keep track of your symptoms. If you have an emergency warning sign (including trouble breathing), get medical attention right away.

If you are sick with COVID-19 or think you might have COVID-19, follow the steps below to care for yourself and to help protect other people in your home and community.

• Stay home: Most people with COVID-19 have mild illness and are able to recover at home without medical care. Do not leave your home, except to get medical care. Do not visit public areas.
• Stay in touch with your doctor. Call before you get medical care. Be sure to get care if you have trouble breathing, or have any other emergency warning signs, or if you think it is an emergency.
• Avoid public transportation: Avoid using public transportation, ride-sharing, or taxis.

COVID-19 Symptoms May Include Loss of Taste and Smell

For more details on the study, click here.

Also read Mold-Help.org’s article on easy ways to help prevent COVID-19.

For more details, visit the CDC website.

Author: Carolyn Willbanks