Research explores the coping mechanism of COVID-19-induced loss of smell

The loss of smell and taste (also known as chemical senses) caused by COVID-19 is particularly devastating, and studies have shown that the associated depression, anxiety, and quality of life are impaired

She said: "I heard people say over and over again,'I can't taste anything, so I said, we have to record what people are doing

Phillips continues to hear patients share their experiences of not being able to smell anything after COVID-19, which affects their sense of taste, which in turn affects their ability to enjoy food

Five women were interviewed extensively, recounting their experience of losing their sense of smell due to COVID-19

"Crispness is one of the things that people mention, as well as taste.

Phillips and her team recorded the reactions of patients in the study

"I mean, I can force myself to eat it, but it's not as pleasant as it used to be

"It's very, very, very uncomfortable and disturbing

"It's also very emotional, because like I said, I often cook for my children

Phillips said that some of the responses highlighted the emotional impact of people who have lost their sense of smell due to COVID-19

She said: "I think another important part of this problem is the true impact on mental health when patients lose their sense of taste and smell

Phillips said that people adopt various strategies to deal with the loss of smell

"I think spreading knowledge is the key," she said

Journal Reference :

1. Sameer D.