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Research by British scientists suggests that loss of smell is the most reliable symptom of COVID-19. It is much more common than cough and fever.
COVID-19 symptoms
Scientists from University College London (UCL) studied 590 people who reported problems with smell or taste at the beginning of the pandemic. In 80 percent SARS-CoV-2 specific antibodies were detected. In the group of people with antibodies, as much as 40 percent. showed no other symptoms of infection.
The researchers recruited volunteers for the study from April 23 to May 14 by texting four clinics in London. Back then, the loss of smell and taste had not yet been officially included in the COVID-19 symptom list. These were people who had ceased to sense smells and tastes within four weeks of the date of reporting.
Study participants were tested for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Four out of five tested positive, suggesting a previous infection. At the same time, since they all had mild symptoms of the infection (including or only loss of smell or taste), the results of the study may not be representative of all COVID-19 patients.
Prof. Rachel Batterham, head of the team of specialists, reminds that coughs and fever are still seen as the main symptoms of COVID-19.
— It is important that we pay attention to even the smallest changes in the functioning of the senses of smell or taste and start quarantine immediately. Especially if we no longer smell such smells as perfume, bleach, toothpaste or coffee – says prof. Batterham.
To check if we could be infected with the coronavirus, a home blood test for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies can be performed. The home-collection test is an alternative to classic RT-PCR tests performed at collection points.
While not all infected people lose their sense of smell if they do, it is likely that the coronavirus is responsible, as it attacks the cells at the back of the nose, throat, and tongue. This is the difference to the common cold, where the perception of smells and tastes changes because the upper respiratory tract is blocked.
Researchers at London’s King’s College, who collect data from the Covid Symptom Study application, estimated that 60 percent people with coronavirus have lost their sense of smell or taste.
This is a mild symptom of infection, so it is unlikely that the disease will end up in hospitalization. Nevertheless, it does have potential risks, such as not being able to smell smoke, gas or burnt food. If symptoms persist for a long time, they can have a significant impact on quality of life. Many people report that they do not smell smoke, some people find it tired with the smell of spoiled garbage or a metallic taste in their mouths. Others do not taste their food at all, even for months after the infection has cleared.
In case of loss of smell, there is no need to visit the clinic, especially during an epidemic. This symptom, as well as other possible signs of infection, can be discussed with your GP online through telemedicine services.
- The editorial office recommends: Ozdrowieńcy about the loss of smell and taste: “everything tastes like paint or gasoline”
Professor Batterham points out that people who lose their sense of smell without experiencing other symptoms of infection can pose a “great risk” to the rest of society by not quarantining themselves.
– Loss of sense of smell or problems with the sense of smells are more common than loss of taste – adds Prof. Rachel Batterham.
See also:
- Will a common cold protect us from COVID-19? The latest research shows that it is possible
- Lower temperatures and wind favor the coronavirus. What is the conclusion? Disturbing conclusions
- Delirium is a symptom of COVID-19 in the elderly. Particular attention should be paid to the infirm
- The more often we disinfect our hands, the better? Not necessarily
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