How long can loss of smell and taste last after a COVID-19 infection?
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How long can loss of smell and taste last after a COVID-19 infection?
Loss of smell and taste is one of the hallmarks of a COVID-19 infection. Research shows it can continue up to 5 months after the virus first strikes. “The diminishment in the amount of cortical tissue happened to be in regions of the brain that are close to the places that are responsible for smell,” Gottlieb said.
How long after being infected can symptoms of COVID-19 still appear?
In rare cases, symptoms can show up after 14 days. Researchers think this happens with about 1 out of every 100 people. Some people may have the coronavirus and never show symptoms. Others may not know that they have it because their symptoms are very mild.
What causes an altered sense of smell and taste?
Disorders of the nervous system can also cause an altered sense of taste. Nervous system disorders affect how your nerves send messages to the rest of your body. The organs that control taste may also be affected by nervous system impairment.
What exactly causes a loss of smell and taste?
Loss of sense of smell, known as anosmia, and taste, known as ageusia, can stem from three main causes: obstruction of the nose, damage to the nose lining, or damage to the olfactory nerve or parts of the brain that deal with smell and taste. Finally, nasal exposure to toxins, such as cadmium or manganese, can cause anosmia.
How do you lose your sense of smell?
A variety of things may cause you to lose your sense of smell. An obstruction or infection within the nose or sinus (such as a cold or sinus infection) will impede your sense of smell. Polyps in the nose block the transmission of smell to the nerves inside the nose.
What can cause changes in sense of smell?
Common triggers are upper respiratory infections and head injuries. In some patients, the exact cause for decreased smell remains unknown, even after more serious causes are ruled out. Among other causes of smell disorders are polyps in the nasal cavities, sinus infections, hormonal disturbances, or dental problems.