Olfactory and taste dysfunction in COVID-19-incidence and recovery

Abstract Background Olfactory and taste dysfunctions have been identified as prominent signs of COVID-19 infection. The data on its prevalence, time onset, recovery is highly variable. Objective study was aimed at establishing the incidence factors influencing smell disorders in COVID-19-affected patients. Methodology Telephonic interviews were used to collect symptoms COVID-19-positive patients, with an emphasis disorders. Patients severe disease a history illnesses that may affect olfaction or taste, those unwilling participate excluded. Results A total 1488 patients identified. 772 included interviewed, their analysed. 242 (31.3%) developed related and/or taste. Anosmia (149) ageusia (152) most common. Younger more commonly affected ( p = 0.0016). presence degree showed small positive correlation r .234, < .001). strong relationship seen fever .825, .001) significantly moderate breathing difficulty. There no significant difference based age sex for sensations. between times 0.00001). Conclusion Smell disorders, early clinical COVID-19, diagnostic well prognostic value. Treatment protocols these are yet be defined. association difficulty found, we recommend testing monitoring all new-onset OTD symptoms. combination active enquiry about symptoms, along objective when present help better understanding pathophysiology timely initiation treatment.