Predictor analysis of smell and taste loss onset and its significance in COVID-19 disease

Abstract

Introduction. COVID-19 is defined as an infectious disease caused by the coronavirus. It manifests with various symptoms, including the loss of smell and taste. While the exact pathogenesis remains unclear, it is believed that these symptoms occur due to the virus?s impact on angiotensin receptors. Post-COVID syndrome, which includes various long-term symptoms, can develop after the initial illness. This study aimed to identify predictors of taste and smell loss during COVID-19, evaluate their prognostic significance for disease outcomes, and explore their connection to the respondents? constitutional characteristics. Material and Methods. The research was conducted using an online questionnaire completed 194 respondents who had recovered from COVID-19 disease (150 experienced taste and/ or smell loss, and 44 did not). In January and February 2022, two versions of the questionnaire were distributed based on the presence or absence of these symptoms. Results. Significant predictors of sensory loss include profession requiring interaction with people, non-smoking status, absence of allergies, and experiencing mild respiratory infection more than once a year. The presence of sensory loss does not necessarily indicate a milder clinical course of the disease. Post-COVID symptoms (gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, skin lesions, and reactivation of herpes simplex virus) occurred significantly more often in the group that experienced taste and/or smell loss. Conclusion. While there are predictors for the development of taste and/or smell loss, they are not the guarantee a better disease outcome. Post-COVID syndrome can manifest differently across various groups of respondents.