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Recently, my partner contracted COVID-19. It was a harrowing experience; he was quite ill but fortunately avoided hospitalization. He had a relentless cough that drained his energy after sleepless nights. Although he struggled with his appetite, he was relieved to maintain his sense of taste and smell, a common symptom associated with COVID. We anticipated a loss of those senses, yet it never occurred. Just when we thought he had dodged a bullet, things took an unexpected turn.
As I was preparing dinner—fried rice, a simple dish that the whole family enjoys—he entered the kitchen for the first time in 14 days after completing his isolation. As the dish cooked, he scrunched his nose and exclaimed, “How many onions did you use?” Confused, I told him I hadn’t used any, apart from a couple of green onions for garnish. He found the aroma so overpowering that he had to step out of the room. How strange!
Initially, I thought it might just be the garlic or the fact that he was back in the kitchen after two weeks. However, the next morning, as our son prepared a Pop Tart, my husband again complained about a strong smell of grilled onions—yet, there were none in sight. That’s when I realized something was off. I had read about unusual sensory experiences following COVID, known as parosmia.
What is Parosmia?
In simple terms, parosmia is a condition where your sense of smell becomes distorted. It’s not uncommon and can lead to strange odors, such as the smell of cooked onions or an unpleasant garbage-like scent. Since smell and taste are intertwined, parosmia can also negatively impact how food tastes, which can be quite disappointing, as beloved foods may become intolerable.
According to Healthline, parosmia can stem from various causes, including respiratory infections and sinus issues linked to COVID. It can also result from head injuries, exposure to toxins, and neurological conditions like Parkinson’s or epilepsy. Individuals suffering from parosmia often face secondary challenges like weight loss, depression, and reduced appetite. In the context of COVID, parosmia may persist as a long-haul symptom lasting over four weeks. Common descriptions of the distorted smells include sewage, rotten meat, smoke, gasoline, and even moldy socks. This distortion can pose dangers, as it may hinder the ability to detect smoke or gas leaks.
A study conducted in May 2021 revealed that participants with parosmia experienced symptoms ranging from nine days to six months, with an average duration of three to four months. It’s believed that COVID damages the receptors and nerves responsible for our olfactory sense. While improvement is possible over time, no definitive cure exists.
Managing Parosmia
So, what can you do if you find yourself dealing with parosmia? Healthline suggests several approaches you might consider:
- Try Smell Training: This technique involves smelling specific scents for 20 seconds, twice a day, over a period of at least three months. Common scents include fruity, floral, spicy, and resinous aromas.
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Steer clear of foods that often trigger parosmia, such as meat, fish, and onions.
- Adopt a Bland Diet: Focus on meals that provide essential nutrients without strong flavors.
- Keep Foods Cold: Heat can intensify unpleasant smells.
- Limit Exposure to Strong Scents: Avoid places rich in aromas, like restaurants, grocery stores, and perfume counters.
- Ventilate Your Space: Open windows to help dissipate strong odors in your home or car.
While parosmia may not have a straightforward cure, managing it is possible through the suggestions above. With some effort, you might regain your sense of smell or at least develop a tolerance for challenging scents. To help prevent parosmia and other COVID-related symptoms, remember to wash your hands, wear a mask, and consider vaccination to protect yourself.
For more information on related topics, check out this one of our other blog posts, and if you’re interested in more about home insemination, visit Cryobaby’s at-home insemination kit. For those looking for excellent resources regarding pregnancy and home insemination, Healthline is a fantastic option.
Summary
Parosmia is a condition that can distort your sense of smell, often occurring after COVID-19. It can lead to unpleasant odors and impact your taste. Understanding its symptoms and management strategies can help those affected cope better.