The phenomenon of smell loss, or anosmia, has emerged as a significant and persistent symptom for many individuals suffering from long COVID. This condition profoundly impacts various aspects of life, including nutrition, safety, and emotional well-being.
Qualitative studies (for instance, Sharetts, Moein, Khan, Doty; 2024) involving interviews with individuals experiencing long-term smell loss post-COVID-19 have highlighted several key themes, revealing the extensive effects on their daily lives. Participants have reported that the loss of smell disrupts their nutrition and appetite, complicates personal hygiene, poses safety risks, and affects their emotional health.
Despite attempts at treatment with corticosteroids and olfactory training, many have found these interventions ineffective. This research underscores the need for greater attention to the psychological, emotional, and social implications of prolonged smell loss, which were often overlooked during the pandemic. The concept of "the loss of the presumed world" refers to the profound and often disturbing impact of losing a fundamental sense like smell. This loss can dramatically alter how we experience and understand reality, affecting not only our ability to enjoy sensory experiences but also our identity and emotional well-being (Barwich 2020; Smith 2022). Smell, often undervalued, plays a crucial role in interpreting flavors and perceiving the environment around us. When this sense is lost, familiar tastes become unrecognizable, and the pleasure derived from food and drink diminishes. Beyond the sensory impact, the loss of smell can have significant psychological effects, leading to feelings of disorientation and detachment from the familiar world. Phenomenologically, the different modalities of smell loss—such as anosmia (total loss), hyposmia (partial loss), parosmia (smell distortion), and phantosmia (smell hallucination)—highlight the complexities involved in the loss and the challenging path toward recovery. This shift affects not only sensory experiences but also our relationships and sense of self. The disruption caused by anosmia and variants reflects a break in our daily experience and our understanding of ourselves within the context of the world around us. The significance of smell extends beyond its role as a sensory experience. Often described as a "poor cousin" among the senses, it functions as a vital health sentinel and plays a crucial role in evolutionary biology and cultural constructions. The experience of losing this sense, poignantly illustrated in literary passages such as the 'Proustian moment,' reveals how deeply sensory stimulation is intertwined with memory and emotion. Marcel Proust’s exploration of this connection highlights the extraordinary nature of sensory experiences and underscores the profound impact of their loss. The intricate nature of smell loss due to long COVID necessitates a deeper exploration of its underlying mechanisms, potential treatments, and the emotional and psychological toll it takes. Continued research and patient-centered approaches are essential to develop effective interventions and support for those affected by this condition.
Keywords: Smell loss; Covid; Phenomenology.