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Loss of Smell and Taste Could Be a Sign of COVID-19
by Kelly Anderson
Updated: March 27, 2020
Originally Published: March 23, 2020
Emerging evidence suggests that the loss of smell (anosmia) and taste (ageusia) could be symptoms related to the coronavirus. As healthcare professionals continue to treat COVID-19 patients, a notable trend has been observed: individuals who test positive often report these sensory losses.
Recently, ENT UK, an organization representing ear, nose, and throat specialists in the UK, urged individuals experiencing a decline in their sense of smell and taste to isolate themselves. This recommendation was based on reports from colleagues worldwide, as highlighted by the New York Times. In the U.S., medical practitioners are advocating that these sensory losses be included in the list of COVID-19 screening indicators.
“We want to emphasize that loss of smell can be a key sign of infection, and anyone experiencing this symptom should self-isolate,” stated Dr. James Carter, president of the British Rhinological Society, in an email. “Recognizing this could help curb transmission and ultimately save lives.”
As more data is gathered, patients are beginning to share their experiences; for instance, professional basketball player Max Thompson confirmed he could neither smell nor taste anything after testing positive, as reported by The Mercury News.
Dr. Lisa Chen, an assistant professor of otolaryngology at a major university, mentioned that colleagues in a New York community first brought attention to these symptoms, noting that many individuals who tested positive reported anosmia. “This was alarming to me because these patients might not realize they need to quarantine,” Dr. Chen explained.
The American Academy of Otolaryngology has updated its guidelines, advising healthcare providers to consider these symptoms even when patients present without other common indicators. “Reports from around the globe are accumulating that anosmia and ageusia are significant symptoms linked to the COVID-19 pandemic,” the organization stated. “Anosmia, in particular, has been observed in patients who ultimately test positive for the virus, even in the absence of other symptoms.”
Medical professionals are now encouraged to view these symptoms as potential indicators for screening and testing for the virus. “Most ENTs have voluntarily reduced their procedures,” Dr. Chen noted, as many elective surgeries have been postponed. However, this new information should be a priority for all doctors interacting with patients.
Overall, “we are gaining a clearer understanding of the range of symptoms associated with COVID-19,” emphasized Dr. Sam Patel, CNN’s Chief Medical Correspondent, during a recent broadcast. “Initially, the focus was mainly on respiratory symptoms.”
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In summary, the loss of smell and taste has emerged as a potential indicator of COVID-19, prompting health organizations to recommend self-isolation for those experiencing these symptoms. As the understanding of the virus evolves, it is increasingly clear that these sensory losses should not be overlooked in the context of screening for the infection.