Alteration in Status of Olfaction amongst COVID 19 Patients: A Descriptive Study in a Dedicated COVID Hospital of Eastern India

Introduction COVID 19 patients present with symptoms of respiratory tract infection as it is caused by SARS Cov-2 which is a β corona virus. A significant number of patients may complain of changes in olfaction either at the onset or later. The incidence, severity and recovery from anosmia/hyposmia varies in different patients. This study was done to investigate the effect of COVID 19 on olfactory dysfunction in the Indian population. Materials & Methods 100 patients admitted with RT-PCR positive reports for SARS Cov-2, in a dedicated COVID hospital in eastern India, were included in this study. Their olfactory function was estimated by pocket smell test (4 items) during ENT examination at bed side. Recovery from anosmia/hyposmia were noted during follow up visits. Results In our study 36% of patients had some alteration in smell. Out of the 36%, 12% had anosmia and 24% had hyposmia. Chances of complete recovery is more in patients suffering from anosmia than hyposmia. Conclusion Changes in smell sensation is a significant marker for screening and diagnosis of cases of COVID 19. Most of the patients recover completely.