Maximizing Participation in Olfactory Training in a Sample with Post-COVID-19 Olfactory Loss

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Olfactory dysfunction is a common and persistent symptom following COVID-19 infection.
• Olfactory training (OT) is a recognized treatment for olfactory loss.
• Remote delivery of healthcare interventions is increasingly important.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of a fully online olfactory training program for patients with post-COVID-19 olfactory dysfunction.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of this remote OT program on olfactory function recovery.

Main Methods:

• 11 participants with post-COVID-19 olfactory loss underwent a 12-week classic olfactory training program.
• Weekly video calls were used to ensure adherence and collect data on olfactory perception.
• Olfactory status was compared to a control group of COVID-19 patients without olfactory loss and a healthy control group.

Main Results:

• The experimental group showed statistically significant improvements in olfactory function (TDI score) from baseline to week 12 and week 24.
• 100% of participants completed the online olfactory training program, indicating high adherence.
• While improved, the post-COVID-19 olfactory loss group still scored lower than controls, suggesting potential long-term effects.

Conclusions:

• An online-monitored olfactory training program is a feasible and effective intervention for patients with post-COVID-19 olfactory dysfunction.
• The high adherence rate suggests that remote delivery models are well-suited for olfactory rehabilitation.
• This approach provides a scalable framework for future olfactory training studies and patient care.