Loss of smell after recovering from COVID-19
Jan 17, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
"Yangkuo" generally refers to losing the sense of smell after being infected with the novel coronavirus. Loss of smell following a COVID-19 infection may be caused by the novel coronavirus infection itself, the common cold, or rhinitis. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital and receive symptomatic treatment through daily care, medications, or other methods based on the underlying cause. It could also be related to conditions such as intracranial tumors; therefore, identifying the exact cause and receiving targeted treatment is advised.
"Yang Guo" generally refers to the loss of smell after infection with the novel coronavirus, which may be caused by novel coronavirus infection, common cold, or rhinitis. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital and receive symptomatic treatment through daily care, medications, or other methods based on the underlying cause.
1. Novel Coronavirus Infection
After infection with the novel coronavirus, the virus can invade the body and damage taste and olfactory nerve cells, leading to loss of smell. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as abidol hydrochloride tablets or Huoxiang Zhengqi capsules can be used for treatment. Additionally, regularly smelling strong odors may help restore the sense of smell.
2. Common Cold
After novel coronavirus infection, patients may have reduced immunity, and catching a chill could lead to a common cold, which typically causes symptoms such as coughing, runny nose, and loss of smell. Under medical guidance, oral medications such as ribavirin granules or Ganmaoling granules may be taken.
3. Rhinitis
Patients who already have rhinitis may experience recurrent nasal mucosal congestion and edema after novel coronavirus infection. If the lesions affect the olfactory cleft area, the normal function of olfactory cells is impaired, preventing them from detecting external odor molecules, thus resulting in loss of smell. Treatment should follow medical advice using traditional Chinese medicines with aromatic, damp-resolving, qi-regulating, and orifice-opening effects, such as Cang'er capsules.
Besides the above causes, loss of smell may also be related to conditions such as intracranial tumors. It is advisable to identify the exact cause and treat accordingly. Patients should avoid getting chilled, drink plenty of warm water, avoid staying up late and overexertion, maintain a light diet, and strengthen their immune system.
