A new analysis of COVID-19 patients in Saudi Arabia finds that loss of smell and taste are very common symptoms. The study pooled data from multiple studies, including more than 26,000 people with confirmed COVID-19. It found that about 44% experienced anosmia, or loss of smell, and about 46% had taste dysfunction. These numbers come with a range: the true figure could be as low as 37% or as high as 54% for either symptom.
The analysis included patients from hospitals, outpatient clinics, and community settings across Saudi Arabia. Most of the studies relied on patients reporting their own symptoms, which can affect accuracy. The researchers also noted that the studies were quite different in their methods, which makes it harder to combine their results.
No information was provided on side effects or safety, because this was not a treatment study. The findings simply describe how often these symptoms occur in this population.
Because the studies were not all designed the same way and relied on self-reports, the results should be interpreted with caution. Still, they suggest that if you or someone you know has COVID-19, losing smell or taste is a common experience. This knowledge can help patients and doctors know what to expect.
