Lifestyle
Recently, my partner caught COVID-19 and experienced a rough bout with the illness. Fortunately, he avoided hospitalization but struggled with a relentless cough that drained his energy. Though he had little desire to eat, he was relieved that he hadn’t lost his sense of taste or smell—something we had prepared for, considering it’s a typical symptom of the virus. However, things took an unexpected turn.
While preparing dinner—simple fried rice, a dish everyone enjoys—he had just finished his isolation period and joined me in the kitchen for the first time in two weeks. Suddenly, he crinkled his nose and exclaimed, “How many onions did you use?” I assured him that I had only included a couple of green onions as a garnish. He insisted the smell was overpowering and stepped out of the room. This was odd.
The next morning, while our child was enjoying a Pop Tart, he again complained about a strong onion scent, even though there were no onions in sight. At that moment, I realized something was amiss. I had heard about strange sensory experiences following COVID-19, one of which is called parosmia.
In simple terms, parosmia is when your sense of smell becomes distorted. It’s not unusual, and it can cause familiar scents to become unpleasant or even repulsive, like the smell of rotten eggs, smoke, or even garbage. Since taste and smell are interconnected, food can end up tasting awful, which can be incredibly disappointing when favorite meals suddenly become intolerable.
According to Healthline, parosmia can arise from various conditions, including respiratory infections, sinus issues, head injuries, exposure to toxins, and neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s and epilepsy. Those affected often face additional challenges like weight loss, decreased appetite, and even depression. In the context of COVID-19, parosmia may be a long-haul symptom—lasting more than four weeks. Many report that their sense of smell is altered to perceive odors like sewage, burnt smells, or even metallic scents. This distortion can be dangerous in situations where smell is crucial, such as detecting smoke from a fire.
A study published in May 2021 indicated that individuals with parosmia experienced symptoms lasting anywhere from nine days to six months, with an average duration of three to four months. It’s believed that COVID-19 may cause this condition by damaging the olfactory receptors and nerves responsible for smell. While some recovery may occur over time, no definitive cure exists.
What Can You Do If You’re Grappling with Parosmia?
Healthline suggests several strategies:
- Engage in Smell Training: This involves inhaling specific scents for 20 seconds, twice daily, over three months or more. Common scents include fruity, floral, spicy, and resinous options.
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Steer clear of items like meat, fish, and onions that may exacerbate symptoms.
- Adopt a Bland Diet: Focus on foods that provide essential nutrients without strong flavors.
- Keep Foods Cold: Heat can intensify olfactory sensitivity, making cold meals more tolerable.
- Limit Exposure to Strong Scents: Avoid places with overpowering smells such as restaurants, grocery stores, and flower shops.
- Ventilate Your Space: Open windows to disperse strong odors in your home or vehicle.
While parosmia may not be curable, its effects can be managed. By implementing these tips, you might regain some of your sense of smell or at least adapt to the new olfactory experiences. As always, to minimize the risk of parosmia and other COVID-19 symptoms, remember to practice good hygiene, wear masks, and consider vaccination to protect your health. For more insights, check out this related blog post.
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Summary
Parosmia is a condition that can emerge after COVID-19, causing distorted smells that can render food unappetizing and affect quality of life. It can stem from various factors related to respiratory infections and neurological issues. While it may not be fully reversible, certain strategies can help manage symptoms and improve the experience of taste and smell.