The reason for the loss of smell among those infected by covid revealed

This condition, called anosmia, occurs in practically all infections and in all variants known so far.

A combined study by 19 researchers from the NYU Grossman School of Medicine and Columbia University in New York, published in the journal Cell this February, abounds in the causes of anosmia (loss of smell) resulting from a covid-19 infection. The study reveals that the infection affects the olfactory receptors, which are proteins located on the surface of nerve cells in the nose that detect molecules associated with odors.. The study also expands its field of action to other effects of the virus on brain cells and neurological conditions, including headaches called 'brain fog' and depressive attacks; In addition, they remember that this virus, which affects less than 1 percent of the cells in the human body, It can cause serious damage to many organs.

The report clarifies that when the virus comes into contact with the olfactory tissue, releases cytokines that modify the genetic activity of the nerve cells that regulate smell, reducing the ability to detect odor molecules. When released, they send a signal to the immune system to do its job. Cytokines affect the growth of all blood cells and other cells that support the body's immune and inflammatory responses. This is a reorganization of the architecture in the nucleus of the cell, which dissipates the compartments that house the odorant receptors.

When does the loss of smell last for those infected by covid? 

The condition is transitory in 88 percent of cases, so the study emphasizes that remaining 12%, and how to treat the condition with these parameters. The study is based on tests carried out on hamsters, with an olfactory capacity far superior to that of humans, but its conclusions are perfectly adaptable to the episodes experienced by people.