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...While far fewer patients reported loss of the sense of smell during the first omicron wave compared to earlier waves, the peculiar Covid symptom seems to be making a comeback.
Doctors note that what they’re seeing during the current rise in cases — fueled by the hyperinfectious BA.5 omicron subvariant — is still based on anecdotal evidence.
— Read more in With BA.5, are you more likely to lose your sense of smell? at NBC News.
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Currently there are few treatment options [for anosmia] available. A technique called olfactory training can help in some cases, and a number of approaches to repairing damaged olfactory tissues are being explored. However, a small but growing group of scientists is pursuing another avenue: olfactory implants that restore smell by bypassing the peripheral olfactory system and electrically stimulating the brain.
— Read more in Restoring smell with an electronic nose at Nature.
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Now scientists have identified a highly potent odour molecule that appears to be a trigger for the sense of disgust experienced by many of those with parosmia. The molecule, called 2-furanmethanethiol, found in coffee, was described by those with a normal sense of smell as being coffee- or popcorn-like, but those with parosmia typically described its scent as disgusting, repulsive or dirty.
— Read more in Scientists identify ‘trigger molecule’ for Covid-related changes to smell at The Guardian.
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Now, approximately a year after my own symptoms began, the distortions have become much more manageable. The sulphuric musk of onions, garlic and peppers has quieted, though I no longer enjoy the flavors in excess. Berries are much more ambrosial, but no longer top my favorites list. That floral perfume that I used to love is no longer offensive, but I simply don’t enjoy it anymore. The highlight of my healing process happened very recently when I noticed that my partner finally smelled like himself again.
— Read more in Examining the Debilitating Effects of Post-COVID Parosmia at BioSpace.
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“I’ve bought this candle before, and the fragrance would fill the room. This one barely has a scent. Boo.” reads a Yankee Candle Amazon review from December 20, 2021.
— On using Yankee Candle reviews as an epidemiological tool; read more in Hmm, angry reviews of candles with ‘no scent’ are spiking again... at Input.