The impact of parosmia, a condition where people lose their sense of smell and taste, can be truly devastating. Mrs. Cook awoke one morning to find that her senses had returned with a vengeance – everything smelled and tasted bad, from floral lotion to stinky feet. As part of the Parosmia—Post COVID Support Group on Facebook, she found solace in knowing she was not alone in her struggles.
For many people with parosmia, daily life becomes a challenge. Cooking for their children and even providing for themselves can be difficult, as they often cannot stomach the smells around them. Some families have had to resort to cooking food outside or in the garage to create a safe space without smells inside. Others struggle to visit places where there are no food smells, such as local libraries.
The weight loss and anxiety that can come with parosmia often lead to depression for those affected by this condition. However, hope is not entirely lost. A treatment called SGB (stellate ganglion block) has shown promise in helping some patients regain their sense of smell and taste. The procedure targets the master switch of the sympathetic nervous system, which may help restore normal sensory function.
In addition to SGB, there are supplements that can be used as potential co-treatment options for parosmia sufferers. These include omega-3s, vitamin A, and calcium buffers. While the effectiveness of these supplements varies from person to person, they may provide some relief for those struggling with this debilitating condition.
Despite the challenges that come with parosmia, many patients find ways to cope and even gain empathy for others who must endure chronic life-altering conditions. As research continues into potential treatments and causes of parosmia, there is hope that more effective therapies will be developed to help those affected by this devastating condition regain their sense of smell and taste, and ultimately, a better quality of life.
