Quality of life and safety impact of COVID-19 associated smell and taste disturbances.
OBJECTIVE
The association between COVID-19 and chemosensory loss has garnered substantial attention, however to date little is known about the real-life consequences of impairment in this unique patient population. The aim of this study is to evaluate the quality of life (QOL) and personal safety deficits experienced by patients with COVID-19 infection.


STUDY DESIGN
Prospective, longitudinal questionnaires.


SETTING
National survey.


METHODS
A longitudinal web-based nationwide survey of adults with COVID-19 and/or a sudden change in smell and taste was launched April 10, 2020. Previously published questions on chemosensory-related QOL and safety events were asked at the 6-month follow-up survey.


RESULTS
As of February 10, 2021, 480 eligible respondents took the 6-month questionnaire, of whom 322 were COVID-19 positive. Impact on QOL was substantial with 96% of subjects reporting at least one of the defined deficits, and over 75% reporting at least 3 of these. "Reduced enjoyment of food" was the most common complaint (87%), while 43% of subjects self-reported depression. The prevalence of safety-related issues was common in this population, with over 57% reporting at least one, and 36% reporting 2 or more events. Of the events asked, the inability to smell smoke that others could perceive was the most common at 45%.


CONCLUSIONS
COVID-19 associated chemosensory losses have a real and substantial impact on both quality of life and safety, beyond mere inconvenience. The high prevalence of these issues despite a relatively short period of olfactory deficit should alert clinicians to the serious risks to an already vulnerable patient population.
['Coelho|Daniel H|DH|', 'Reiter|Evan R|ER|', 'Budd|Serenity G|SG|', 'Shin|Yongyun|Y|', 'Kons|Zachary A|ZA|', 'Costanzo|Richard M|RM|']
D000293:Adolescent D000328:Adult D000368:Aged D000086382:COVID-19 D005260:Female D006801:Humans D008137:Longitudinal Studies D008297:Male D008875:Middle Aged D000857:Olfaction Disorders D011446:Prospective Studies D011788:Quality of Life D012306:Risk D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires D013651:Taste Disorders D055815:Young Adult
COVID-19 Smell Taste Coronavirus Epidemiology Quality of life, safety