Title: New Treatment Shows Promise in Restoring Sense of Smell and Taste for Long COVID Patients
Word Count: 317
A ground-breaking treatment may provide hope for individuals suffering from long COVID, as it offers a potential solution to regaining their lost sense of smell and taste. The treatment focuses on targeting a cluster of nerves called the stellate ganglion, located in the neck.
Known as a “stellate ganglion block,” this technique has been previously utilized for various medical conditions. However, researchers are now studying its effectiveness specifically in relation to long COVID symptoms for the first time.
To evaluate the treatment, a study was conducted involving 54 participants who had not achieved positive results with other treatment options for their loss of smell and taste. Out of these, 22 participants reported improved symptoms only a week after undergoing the treatment, with further improvements observed after a month.
According to the researchers, the average improvement in symptoms three months post-treatment was a significant 49%. However, it is crucial to note that not all participants responded to the injection. Those who did not experience benefits from the initial treatment also did not respond to a subsequent round of injections.
Despite the promising outcomes, experts caution that there are limitations attached to this approach. One of these limitations is that not all patients possess a stellate ganglion.
Nevertheless, the treatment is seen as a potential early intervention for those suffering from persistent loss of smell and taste due to long COVID. It offers a glimmer of hope to individuals who have yet to regain these crucial senses, which sometimes have a significant impact on their quality of life.
It is important to acknowledge that more research is required to solidify these findings, and the results of this study have not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal. However, the potential breakthrough presented by this novel treatment provides relief and encouragement to the long COVID community, fostering optimism for the future.
As the medical industry continues to battle the long-term effects of COVID-19, advancements like these provide renewed hope for individuals struggling with the aftermath of the virus.
“Travel aficionado. Incurable bacon specialist. Tv evangelist. Wannabe internet enthusiast. Typical creator.”