One in 20 people with Long Covid are reporting symptoms six months after having the virus, according to researchers. Their experience of parosmia - the distortion of smell - has been described as 'emotionally distressing'.
A recent study published in the British Medical Journal said millions of people may still be suffering from issues with taste and smell. The loss of these senses can lead to severe distress and isolation, warned researchers.
"Loss of smell and taste adversely affects quality of life by depriving those affected of several everyday pleasures and social bonds," said study leader Paolo Boscolo-Rizzo of the University of Trieste. "People can also experience anorexia, food aversions, malnutrition, anxiety and depression."
" For the overwhelming majority, parosmia transforms a pleasant odour into an unpleasant one, and daily activities such as smelling coffee and sensing the flavour of food can become disgusting and emotionally distressing."
Around five percent of people report issues with smell and taste six months after Covid. And with an estimated 550 million cases worldwide as of July 2022, the study advised health providers to support patients when their symptoms are overlooked by clinicians.
Other potential consequences of Covid such as heart palpitations or chronic fatigue syndrome, meanwhile, are deemed more serious, the Express reported. The ONS (Office for National Statistics) now estimates that more than two million people in the UK are living with Long Covid.
Dr Kiren Collison, chair of the NHS Long Covid taskforce, points out: "Long Covid can be devastating for those living with it and, while we continue to learn more about this new condition, it's important people know they're not alone, and that the NHS is here for them.
In a recent survey, healthcare practitioners argued that the Government need to commit more funds towards research into Long Covid.
An Institute for Fiscal Studies report has suggested that the condition could be costing the UK economy up to £15billion in lost earnings as employees take time off work sick. That study also found low-income families were the most affected, implying a growing health inequality within the nation.
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - sign up to our daily newsletter here .
