Important Facts For Prelims
Anosmia and Ageusia: Possible Signs of COVID-19
- 25 Mar 2020
- 2 min read
Why in News
Recently, Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialists have noted a growing number of patients with anosmia (the abrupt loss of smell) and ageusia (loss of sense of taste). Both anosmia and ageusia could be signs of COVID-19 in people who otherwise appear well.
- The World Health Organisation lists the most common signs of COVID-19 as fever, tiredness and dry cough.
Anosmia
- Anosmia is the partial or complete loss of the sense of smell. This loss may be temporary or permanent.
- It is caused by a swelling or blockage in the nose that prevents odors from getting to the top of the nose.
- Respiratory viral infection is a common cause of loss of smell. The sense of smell usually returns when the infection is over.
- Other main causes of anosmia:
- Irritation to the mucous membranes lining the nose.
- Blockage of the nasal passages.
- Brain or nerve damage.
- Complications: People with anosmia may not be able to fully taste foods and may lose interest in eating.
- This can lead to weight loss or malnutrition.
Ageusia
- Ageusia is a condition that is characterized by a complete loss of taste function of the tongue.
- People who have a reduced ability to taste are said to have hypogeusia.
- Common Causes:
- Aging
- Nasal airway problems.
- Upper airway infection, such as sinus infection, tonsillitis, or sore throat.
